seasonal editors · 2017-11-15 · seasonal editors daniel brauning michael fialkovich greg grove...

Seasonal Editors

Daniel BrauningMichael FialkovichGreg GroveGeoff Malosh

Department Editors

Book ReviewsGene Wilhelm, Ph.D.513 Kelly Blvd.Slippery Rock, PA16057-1145(724) [email protected]

CBC ReportNick Bolgiano711 W. Foster Ave.State College, PA 16801(814) [email protected]

Hawk Watch ReportsLaurie GoodrichKeith Bildstein410 Summer Valley Rd.Orwigsburg, PA 17961(570) [email protected]@hawkmtn.org

PAMCFranklin Haas2469 Hammertown RoadNarvon, PA [email protected]

John Fedak26 Race StreetBradford, PA [email protected]

Pennsylvania BirdlistsPeter RobinsonP. O. Box 482Hanover, PA [email protected]

Data TechnicianWendy Jo Shemansky41 Walkertown Hill Rd.Daisytown, PA [email protected]

Publication ManagerFranklin Haas2469 Hammertown Rd.Narvon, PA [email protected]

Contents

137 from the Editor

138 Notes on Common Terns and their recent attempt to nest at Presque Isle

.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jerry McWilliams

140 Checklist of the Birds of Delaware County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al Guarente

142 Observations from the 2012 PAMC. . . . . . . . John Fedak and Frank Haas

146 The case of the dangling woodpecker.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . August Mirabella

147 Book Review – The Bluebird Effect: Uncommon Bonds with Common Birds

.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gene Wilhelm

148 Summary of the Season. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan Brauning

150 Birds of Note – June through July 2012

153 Photographic Highlights

157 Local Notes

In Focus .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Suggestions to Contributors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

PENNSYLVANIA BIRDSJournal of the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology

Volume 26 Number 3 Jun 2012- Jul 2012

Geoff Malosh, Editor-in-chief450 Amherst AvenueMoon Township, PA 15108-2654(412) 735-3128 [email protected]://www.pabirds.org

Cover: Dickcissel (Spiza americana). Dickcissels invaded Pennsylvania this summer in numbers notseen in over two decades, likely driven here by extreme drought in the Midwest. They were reportedfrom 22 counties, but few were so cooperative as a small group of them in southern Mercer, wherethis bird was photographed 16 June 2012. (Alex Lamoreaux)

PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS 137 2012 – VOLUME 26 NO. 3

... from the Editor Guidelines

Most readers will know—because I have said it in this space and elsewhere on many occasions—that one of the primary job responsibilities for the chief editor of Pennsylvania Birds is to actively solicit articles for publication. Perhaps unsurprisingly, I am writing here again to do just that, but perhaps in a more helpful way than usual.

One of the most common questions I receive from people who may be interested in contributing is, “what sorts of articles are you interested in publishing?”

Conveniently, this very issue provides two wonderful examples. The first is an article by Jerry McWilliams which details a nesting attempt by a pair of Common Terns at Gull Point, Presque Isle State Park. Not only does McWilliams take us through the discovery and results of this particular attempt, but he provides an in-depth account of the history of Common Terns at Gull Point, the only location in the state where they have ever been known to nest. The second is a detailed listing of all of the birds that have occurred in Delaware County by Al Guarente, complete with seasonal status for every species.

Of course, these two features are obviously special. Not everyone has a spot as dynamic and as storied as Gull Point in their backyard that they can write about. And the time and energy it takes to compile a complete list of the birds that have occurred in a single county is a very large undertaking, one that usually only materializes after years of birding and record keeping in that county. But one thing is common to both, and both share a commonality with so many other potential topics: they are both about record keeping.

Pennsylvania Birds is at its core a journal of record. Articles centered on bird records are always welcome, and these do not necessarily require a vast, sweeping scope like the entire history of birds that have occurred in a county. Perhaps there is a state gamelands or a

large reservoir nearby that you have birded for many years. Or perhaps you concentrated on birding a specific location over the course of a single year, and dedicated many hours of your free time to watching and tracking the birds you saw. You should consider compiling and summarizing all of your sightings over the year or years at these kinds of sites, perhaps with commentary on how the birdlife has changed there over time. After all, you are the expert in your specific area, perhaps in some cases even more so than the compiler for your county. Pennsylvania Birds is the perfect outlet for this kind of expertise.

But record keeping is about more than just lists of birds. Consider Jerry McWilliams’ article in this issue: primarily it is about the records of nesting Common Terns in a specific place. These kinds of articles, too, are more than happily received. Articles discussing the status, distribution, and history of a species in a specific location or even across the state are also more than happily received.

Of course, there are many more types of articles that are published here. In the past, we have featured articles about a specific event (a hurricane, a single nesting record, a strange occurrence witnessed in the field, etc.). First person accounts of the discovery of a rare bird have also frequently appeared here. We even occasionally receive and publish purely scientific articles. All of these types of articles are fair game.

As for the rest of the guidelines, such as style and voice and word count and the like, you can simply contact me with questions. The biggest step toward making a contribution is the idea, and summoning the determination to see that idea through. The editorial staff here can help with the rest. Compiler News

For the first time in quite a while, there is nothing to report with respect

to compilers coming and going. Stability is a good thing. We do however have seven counties still vacant, some of which have been vacant for several years. These are Butler, Cameron, Elk, Montour, Northumberland, Union, and Warren. Of these, only Butler and Warren have not been vacant for my entire tenure as editor. It certainly would be nice to receive reports from these counties once again. As you’ll see when you read John Fedak’s summary of the 2012 PAMC in this issue, all seven of these counties participated in the PAMC this year, which proves, of course, that there are active birders in these areas. If you are one of these birders, please consider contributing to the permanent record catalogued here in Pennsylvania Birds. Compiling for a county is an important and worthwhile effort, and something that is looked on with well-earned pride by those who do compile for this journal. If you are interested, please contact me.

Geoff Malosh Editor-in-Chief

PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS (ISSN 0898-8501) is published four times per year by The Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology. Editorial and business offices are located at 2469 Hammertown Road, Narvon, PA 17555-9730. Subscriptions, all in US$: One year U.S.A $30, Canada $48, Foreign $60. Library rate $33. Single copies: $9. Checks and money orders in U.S. dollars only should be made payable to PSO. Copyright © 2012 by the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NARVON, PA 17555 and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to PSO, 2469 Hammertown Road, Narvon, PA 17555-9730.


Notes on Common Terns and their recent attempt to nest at Presque Isle Jerry McWilliams

In the summer of 2012, a pair of Common Terns twice attempted to nest at Gull Point at Presque Isle State Park, Erie County, the first such attempts at this location since 1995. This article provides an account of their attempt in 2012, and a review of the history of the Common Tern at Gull Point since the early 1900s. History

In 1904, W. E. Clyde Todd wrote of

Common Tern in his Birds of Erie and Presque Isle, “I thought it probable that this species might formerly have bred on Presque Isle, since all conditions, with the exception of sufficient protection, seemed to be favorable.” However Todd was unable to find any record of breeding on Presque Isle. On 1 August 1926, J. E. Perry discovered a gathering of terns at the east end on a newly formed sand spit. He noted that they were behaving in an unusual manner as they swooped down on a Marsh Hawk and on himself. He also noted two young birds near the edge of the beach. It wasn’t until the following year when Perry revisited the site that he found about 25 pairs of terns nesting there. Soon after this discovery, the state park commissioners declared the occupied ground a sanctuary for the terns. Following their protection, the colony increased in size until 1937, when there were about two hundred pairs. In 1930 and 1931, A. A. Andrews described the colony as occupying an area about a quarter of a mile long and not more than five or six hundred feet wide. On 1 June

1930, Andrews counted 129 nests in twenty minutes. He later described the nests as having contained from two to four eggs in shallow depressions next to sunken logs or driftwood. He believed egg laying that year continued until about the middle of June. In 1934, Todd found terns still incubating eggs as late as 2 August. In 1931 the tern colony grew so large that it expanded out of the protected area onto the public beaches. When the park officially opened to the public on 30 May 1931, people walked among the nests and even trampled the eggs. Consequently most of the nests in that area were abandoned. Those that were successful in producing young had a hard time keeping their young fed during the afternoon hours when the beaches were occupied with bathers. The colony diminished in size that year.

There appear to be no written accounts of nesting Common Terns at Presque Isle after 1937, though they were believed to successfully nest, at least periodically, until 1966. Over the next 27 years, Gull Point became increasingly popular as a playground for the public. I personally witnessed over 50 boats moored at the tip of Gull Point at one time with people and pets running about freely. In May 1992, my discovery of a territorial Piping Plover at Gull Point managed to catch the attention of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, which promptly directed the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to take immediate action to protect Gull Point once again. Despite the angry boating community’s battle to stop the

closing of Gull Point, it was closed to all—including birders—the following year. Signs were posted along the perimeter of the restricted area to protect not only Piping Plovers but all shorebirds. The designating closing dates from 1 April to 30 November were determined by Jean Stull Cunningham and me, based upon recent and historical shorebird migratory records at Gull Point. It took a few years for things to quiet down at Gull Point, and then in 1995 a pair of Common Terns set up territory. On 11 May of that year, I found a nest containing three eggs, but by 1 June the nest was abandoned. A month later I found a second nest, which contained a single egg near where the first nest had been. This nest failed as well, probably as the result of predation.

2012 Nesting Attempt

Since 1995, at least one pair of

Common Terns has shown some territorial behavior at Gull Point from time to time, including the past two or three years, but with no nesting attempts. Then in May of 2012, birders reported seeing a pair of Common Terns showing strong territorial behavior, demonstrated by the terns pursuing gulls at the southernmost sand spit of Gull Point. On 17 June, I received word that a tern was sitting on the ground and possibly on a nest. I investigated the site on 22 June and found a perched tern on a stump just offshore. When a gull flew past, the tern took off in pursuit and moments later another tern lifted off the ground to join in pursuit. This gave me the opportunity to look for the nest. I rushed over to where I thought the tern had been sitting on the ground and spotted the nest (GPS 42.16805N, 80.06451W), which contained two olive-colored eggs that were heavily spotted and blotched in various shades of brown. The nest was located in a large area of open sand mixed with some scattered cobble. The eggs sat in a slight depression in the sand lined with a few feathers and some small twigs near a larger stick. I continued to check on the nest once a week through 9 July and the eggs were still present. However, on my 19 July visit the nest had been abandoned. During the ten days between my visits, new signs had been placed around the perimeter of Gull Point as well, and I saw evidence of vehicle activity. One sign was placed within two meters of the nest and tire tracks were within one meter of the nest. Despite the possible nesting disruption by human activity, it is suspected that the nest

Figure 1. Two Common Tern eggs at the first 2012 nest site at Gull Point, 22 June. (Jerry McWilliams)


failure was due to predation. On the same day I found another nest (GPS 42.16998N, 80.06186W) at the east end of Gull Point in the same kind of habitat. This nest contained three eggs. By 26 July the second nest had also failed, again probably the result of predation.

Current and Future Status

In order to enhance tern and

shorebird habitat, step were taken to eradicate phragmites, willow, and cottonwood, the primary species that blanket Gull Point and which reduce shorebird habitat. In the spring of 2010 much of the vegetation was mowed to near ground level over a substantial area of Gull Point. However, by mid- to late summer the vegetation had returned thicker and lusher than it was before the mowing. In 2012 a more aggressive approach was taken to prevent regrowth. In August, glyphosate was applied with backpack sprayers, using glyphosate on willow and cottonwood saplings (mostly under three years of age) and on any exotic plant species at least 35 feet from the water or wetland. In October, there was an aerial application of herbicide applied on Gull Point. In November, a final herbicide was applied and the standing dead vegetation was mowed to ground level throughout Gull Point.

Shortly after Gull Point was mowed in November, the observation platform was moved. It was my opinion that placing the platform at the easternmost portion of Gull Point would enable birders to see most of the shorebird habitat without disturbing any resting, feeding, or potentially nesting shorebirds and terns. People who conduct bird research at Gull Point could survey most of their study area from the platform and would not need to enter the restricted area so frequently. DCNR and the PGC agreed that my suggestion for the new location of the platform would be beneficial to both birders and shorebirds, so it was moved to this site.

The greatest challenge to nesting terns and Piping Plovers at Gull Point is probably not people, but predatory animals and birds. Predatory mammals that patrol the point fairly regularly are coyotes, raccoons, striped skunks, opossums, and American mink. Avian predators include Ring-billed, Herring, and Great Black-backed gulls, and Peregrine Falcons. Gulls are present on Gull Point every day, so they may be the greatest avian threat to nesting birds. It may take several pairs of nesting Common Terns in close proximity to each other to keep predators at bay. If terns can establish a breeding colony this would bode well for nesting Piping Plovers, since several territorial Common Terns can be quite persuasive in keeping

predators away, even of the human kind. The integrity of Gull Point is at the

mercy of Mother Nature. A strong storm from the north can not only remove parts of the point, but also add parts to the point by creating new sand spits and ponds. This can be a good thing, but it also may work against nesting terns. Terns starting a colony this year in suitable habitat may abandon the site the following year if the habitat has changed or is washed away. Erosion is a constant event along the north side of Gull Point. With the passing of every storm more beach is lost, which threatens the future of Gull Point. DCNR dumps tons of sand at Beach 10 every year in hopes that this sand will move in an easterly direction, replacing the sand that is lost due to erosion at Gull Point.

With the combination of plant succession, human disturbance, predators, and the changing dynamics of Gull Point, it is uncertain whether either Common Terns or Piping Plovers will be able to nest at this site. If somehow these challenges can be met, perhaps one day a birder will be able to walk out to Gull Point and see adult terns and plovers feeding young for the first time in many decades.

3508 Allegheny Road Erie, PA 16508

[email protected] References Baicich, Paul J., Harrison, J.O. 1997. A

Guide to the Nests, Eggs, and Nestlings of North American Birds, second edition. Academic Press, San Diego.

Harrison, Hal. H. 1975. Bird’s Nests, a Peterson Field Guide. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston.

McWilliams, Gerald M., Cunningham, Jean Stull. 2006. Checklist of Birds Recorded in Erie County, Pennsylvania including Presque Isle State Park. Presque Isle Audubon Society, Erie, PA.

McWilliams, G.M. 1995. Attempted nesting of three species of Laridae at Presque Isle State Park, 1995, Erie County. Pennsylvania Birds 9:79-80.

Poole, E.L. ca. 1960. Unpublished manuscript in the department of ornithology. Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA.

Poole, E.L. 1964. Pennsylvania Birds, An annotated list. Livingston, Narbeth, PA.

Stull, J., J.A. Stull, and G.M. McWilliams. 1985. Birds of Erie County, Pennsylvania including Presque Isle. Allegheny Press, Elgin, PA.

Todd, W.E.C. 1940. Birds of Western Pennsylvania. University of Pittsburgh Press, Pittsburgh.

Figure 2. Three Common Tern eggs at the second 2012 nest site at Gull Point, 9 July. (Jerry McWilliams)

Seasons Abundance CodesSP - March through May C - Common: certain to be seen in suitable habitat in proper seasonS - June through July U - Uncommon: present, but not certain to be seenF - August through November O - Occasional: seen annually, but only a few times during a seasonW - December through February R - Rare: not seen annuallyBoldfaced birds currently breed in county X - Accidental; less than three records

Species SP S F W Species SP S F W Species SP S F W

Grreater White-fronted Goose X Little Blue Heron R U U Black-tailed Godwit XSnow Goose O R O O Tricolored Heron X R R Hudsonian Godwit R RRoss's Goose X Cattle Egret R R R Marbled Godwit RBrant R R Green Heron C C C R Ruddy Turnstone R XCackling Goose R R R Black-cr. Night-Heron U U U O Red Knot R XCanada Goose C C C C Yellow-cr. Night-Heron R R R Sanderling RMute Swan R R R R White Ibis R R Semipalmated Sandpiper U O CTundra Swan O O O Glossy Ibis R R R Western Sandpiper O OWood Duck C C C R Black Vulture U U U U Least Sandpiper U O C XGadwall U U R Turkey Vulture C C C C White-rumped Sandpiper O OEurasian Wigeon X Osprey U R U X Baird's Sandpiper O OAmerican Wigeon U U O Swallow-tailed Kite X Pectoral Sandpiper U O U XAmerican Black Duck U U U U Mississippi Kite X Dunlin O O RMallard C C C C Bald Eagle U U U U Curlew Sandpiper X XBlue-winged Teal U R U R Northern Harrier U R U O Stilt Sandpiper ONorthern Shoveler C R C U Sharp-shinned Hawk U R C U Buff-breasted Sandpiper RNorthern Pintail C R C U Cooper's Hawk U O U U Ruff R R XGreen-winged Teal C R C U Northern Goshawk R R O R Short-billed Dowitcher O OCanvasback R R R Red-shouldered Hawk U R U R Long-billed Dowitcher R RRedhead R R R Broad-winged Hawk C U C X Common Snipe U U URing-necked Duck U U O Swainson's Hawk X American Woodcock O O O RGreater Scaup O O O Red-tailed Hawk C U C C Wilson's Phalarope R RLesser Scaup R R R Rough-legged Hawk R R R Red-necked Phalarope X RSurf Scoter X X X Golden Eagle R R Red Phalarope XWhite-winged Scoter R X American Kestrel U U C U Black-legged Kittiwake XBlack Scoter R X Merlin R O R Sabine's Gull XLong-tailed Duck R R R Peregrine Falcon R R O R Bonaparte's Gull O OBufflehead U X U U Yellow Rail X X Little Gull XCommon Goldeneye O O O Black Rail X X Laughing Gull C U C RHooded Merganser U U U King Rail R R R X Ring-billed Gull C C C CCommon Merganser C U C Virginia Rail O O O R Herring Gull U U U URed-breasted Merganser R R Sora R R R R Iceland Gull R R RRuddy Duck U R U U Purple Gallinule X X Lesser Black-backed Gull R RRing-necked Pheasant O O O O Common Moorhen O O O R Glaucous Gull R R RWild Turkey O O O American Coot U U U Great Black-backed Gull U U U UNorthern Bobwhite O O O R Sandhill Crane X X Sooty Tern XRed-throated Loon R R R Black-bellied Plover R O X Least Tern RCommon Loon U X U R American Golden-Plover X R Gull-billed Tern XPied-billed Grebe U R U U Wilson's Plover X Caspian Tern O O UHorned Grebe O O O Semipalmated Plover U O U Black Tern R R RRed-necked Grebe R R R Piping Plover X Common Tern R REared Grebe X Killdeer U U U U Arctic Tern XNorthern Gannet X X Black-necked Stilt X X Forster's Tern U U CDouble-crested Cormorant C U C O American Avocet X X Royal Tern XGreat Cormorant R R Spotted Sandpiper U U U Black Skimmer XAnhinga X Solitary Sandpiper U O U Rock Dove C C C CAmerican Bittern R R R R Greater Yellowlegs U R U R Mourning Dove C C C CLeast Bittern O O O Willet X X Yellow-billed Cuckoo O O OGreat Blue Heron C C C U Lesser Yellowlegs U R U R Black-billed Cuckoo O O OGreat Egret C C C R Upland Sandpiper R R R Barn Owl R R R RSnowy Egret U U U Whimbrel X X Eastern Screech-Owl U U U U

Checklist of the Birds of Delaware CountyAl Guarente

Located in the southeast corner of Pennsylvania and only 191 square miles in size, Delaware County is the fifth most populated county inPennsylvania. Although small in size and large in populace, the county still has a good variety of bird life due to a large state park (RidleyCreek), a National Wildlife Refuge (John Heinz), and the fact that it borders on the Delaware River. As of this date, there have been a total of 324species.

This list is a compilation of all my years of birding in the county, and the help of many local birders including Nick Pulcinella and DavidEberly, among many others. Thanks to Nick Pulcinella, a large part of the work was already performed with his publication of The Birds ofDelaware County, Pennsylvania.

PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS 140 2012 - VOLUME 26 NO. 3

Species SP S F W Species SP S F W Species SP S F W

Great Horned Owl U U U U Wood Thrush U U U X Dickcissel R R RSnowy Owl R R American Robin C C C C Bobolink O O U XBarred Owl R R R R Varied Thrush X Red-winged Blackbird C C C ULong-eared Owl R R R Gray Catbird C C C R Eastern Meadowlark O R O RShort-eared Owl R R R R Northern Mockingbird C C C C Yellow-headed Blackbird R RNorthern Saw-whet Owl R R R Brown Thrasher O O O R Rusty Blackbird O O OCommon Nighthawk O O U European Starling C C C C Brewer's Blackbird X XEastern Whip-poor-will R R R American Pipit O O R Common Grackle C C C UChimney Swift C C C Cedar Waxwing U U U U Brown-headed Cowbird C C C URuby-thr. Hummingbird U C U Blue-winged Warbler U U U Orchard Oriole O O ORufous Hummingbird X X Golden-winged Warbler R R Baltimore Oriole C C C RBelted Kingfisher U U U O Tennessee Warbler O O Pine Grosbeak X XRed-headed Woodpecker R R R Cape May Warbler O O X Purple Finch O O ORed-bellied Woodpecker C C C C Black-throated Blue Warbler U U House Finch C C C CYellow-bellied Sapsucker O O O Yellow-rumped Warbler C C O Red Crossbill R R RDowny Woodpecker C C C C Black-thr. Gray Warbler X White-winged Crossbill R R RHairy Woodpecker U U U U Black-thr. Green Warbler U U X Common Redpoll R R RBlack-backed Woodpecker X X Townsend's Warbler X Pine Siskin R R RNorthern Flicker C C C C Blackburnian Warbler O O American Goldfinch C C C CPileated Woodpecker O O O O Yellow-throated Warbler O R R Evening Grosbeak R R ROlive-sided Flycatcher O R O Pine Warbler O R O R House Sparrow C C C CEastern Wood-Pewee C C C Prairie Warbler U U UYellow-bellied Flycatcher O O Palm Warbler U U RAcadian Flycatcher C C C Bay-breasted Warbler O OAlder Flycatcher R R Blackpoll Warbler U R UWillow Flycatcher U C U Cerulean Warbler R R R Total Species 324Least Flycatcher O X O Black-and-white Warbler U R U XEastern Phoebe U U U American Redstart C U CSay's Phoebe X Prothonotary Warbler R RGreat Cr. Flycatcher U U U Worm-eating Warbler O R O Additional SpeciesWestern Kingbird R Swainson's Warbler XEastern Kingbird C C C Ovenbird C C C R Hypothetical: may have occurredScissor-tailed Flycatcher X Northern Waterthrush O O King EiderLoggerhead Shrike R R R Louisiana Waterthrush O O O Ruffed GrouseNorthern Shrike X X X Kentucky Warbler O O O Audubon's ShearwaterWhite-eyed Vireo C C C Connecticut Warbler X R Clapper RailYellow-throated Vireo O O O Mourning Warbler R R DovekieBlue-headed Vireo O O Common Yellowthroat C C C R Black GuillemotWarbling Vireo U U U Hooded Warbler O O O Atlantic PuffinPhiladelphia Vireo X O Wilson's Warbler O O R Bewick's WrenRed-eyed Vireo C C C Canada Warbler O R OBlue Jay C C C C Yellow-breasted Chat O O O RAmerican Crow C C C C Summer Tanager R X Extirpated: formerly occurredFish Crow O O O O Scarlet Tanager U U U Whooping CraneCommon Raven X X Western Tanager X Red-cockaded WoodpeckerHorned Lark R R R R Eastern Towhee U U U ON. Rough-winged Swallow U U U American Tree Sparrow O O OPurple Martin U U U Chipping Sparrow C C C R ExtinctTree Swallow C C C Clay-colored Sparrow R R X Passenger PigeonBank Swallow U R U Field Sparrow U U U OBarn Swallow C C C Vesper Sparrow R O RCliff Swallow O O O Lark Sparrow X XCarolina Chickadee C C C C Savannah Sparrow O O RBlack-capped Chickadee R R O Grasshopper Sparrow R RBoreal Chickadee X X X LeConte's Sparrow X XTufted Titmouse C C C C Nelson's Sparrow X XRed-breasted Nuthatch U R U U Seaside Sparrow X Media, Delaware County, PennsylvaniaWhite-breasted Nuthatch U U U U Fox Sparrow O O O [email protected] Creeper O X O O Song Sparrow C C C CCarolina Wren C C C C Lincoln's Sparrow O O XHouse Wren C C C R Swamp Sparrow U U U OWinter Wren O O O White-throated Sparrow C R C CSedge Wren R White-crowned Sparrow O O RMarsh Wren U U U R Dark-eyed Junco C C CGolden-crowned Kinglet U U O Lapland Longspur R R RRuby-crowned Kinglet C C O Snow Bunting O O OBlue-gray Gnatcatcher C C C R Northern Cardinal C C C CEastern Bluebird U U U U Rose-breasted Grosbeak U R UVeery C C C Black-headed Grosbeak XGray-cheeked Thrush O O Blue Grosbeak O O OSwainson's Thrush U U Indigo Bunting C C C XHermit Thrush U U O Painted Bunting X X

PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS 141 2012 - VOLUME 26 NO. 3


Observations from the 2012 Pennsylvania Migration Count (PAMC) John Fedak and Frank Haas

The 21st annual Pennsylvania Migration Count was conducted 12 May 2012. The weather seemed to cooperate for us this year and many birders were able to participate in the count. Here are the numbers for 2012:

1068 observers (up 138) 3156.28 field hours (up 224.16) 208,976 birds (up 9856) 239 species (up one) 63 counties reporting Participation, once again, was up

this year. Pennsylvania birders went beyond expectations this year in the count. The 2012 PAMC tied with the 2003 count for the second highest number of species found. The overall high species count was 2002 when 240 species were found.

Weather

The weather was more consistent

throughout the state on count day than recent years. Temperatures were warm and highs ranged between 70 and 80°F. Wind also varied across the state, but was generally light with gusts not exceeding 20mph. There was little, if any, precipitation throughout the state, but the threat of thundershowers did exist in the southeast. Sky conditions were generally partly cloudy or mostly sunny.

Philadelphia had a high temperature of 79°F with winds from 4 to 14 mph. Wilkes-Barre had a high temperature of 77°F and winds from 3 to 11 mph. In the central part of the state, Harrisburg hit 78°F and had wind speeds of 0 to 6 mph. State College had a lower high temperature of 75°F and slightly higher winds of 4 to 8 mph. The western edge of Pennsylvania was slightly cooler than the rest of the state. Erie and Pittsburgh both had high temperatures of 73°F. Winds in the west were generally between 5 and 12 mph.

How did this affect the birding in the state on 5/12? The weather was nice, but also warmer in some parts of the state. This may have negatively affected the count as bird movement seemed to slow as the day progressed. However, because the weather was generally nice, more people stayed out for longer periods of time, which in turn likely had a positive effect on the total of birds counted. Moreover, the later date of the count may have had more to do with count numbers than the weather. Birders commented that most migrants had already passed through the southern part of the state. Over time, PAMC data may show that migrating birds are moving through the

state earlier, but this remains to be seen. One thing remains certain though, birders tend to do their best no matter what the weather is the day of the count.

Participation

There were over 125 more birders

and almost 225 more field hours logged in 2012 compared to 2011. Since 2010, we have added almost 300 new participants and over 900 more field hours in the PAMC. That is a tremendous increase in participation in the last two years. Congratulations for your efforts!

Bucks had the most party hours by foot, an impressive 142. Franklin led the most hours by car with 90.25. Franklin also headed up the most hours by other means, with 47, and the most hours by parties, with 180.5.

Participants really racked up the mileage as well. Montgomery led with the most miles on foot as well—504 miles! Somerset recorded a remarkable 863 miles by car. Juniata recorded the most other miles with 21.5. Finally, Somerset recorded the most miles of any county with 894.5.

More of an effort was made by the coordinators to keep the count in the forefront of birder’s minds since the end of the 2011 count. Announcements were made on the PABirds Listserv, the PSO website, the PSO facebook page, and other websites and facebook pages dealing with Pennsylvania birds. The effort to increase awareness paid off. We were happy to see such a large increase in participation over what was already an outstanding increase in participation during the 2011 migration count.

Sadly, there were still four counties without any report submitted. Surely there are very good and passionate birders in these counties. With a little more effort this offseason, maybe we will see participation in Columbia, Fulton, Pike, and Washington in 2013. We know there are birders in these counties that post regularly on the listserv. With any luck, the 2013 count day will have good birding weather and ample participation by birders in all of the counties in the state.

Surprisingly, eBird results posted for the day of the count were very close to what was submitted to PAMC compilers.. According to Drew Weber <http://www.nemesisbird.com/2012/05/2012-pamc-ebird-results/>, 809 checklists were submitted, yielding 221 species (only 8 off official data) with 79,361 individuals. Although the number of individuals was less than half actually reported, this shows that eBird can be a

valuable tool when reporting species for a day count across the state, if everyone submits reports. Table 1. Top 10 counties by field hours

County Hours Franklin 180.50 Bucks 170.50 Chester 150.25 Westmoreland 143.00 Berks 129.75 Indiana 118.16 Lancaster 115.00 Cumberland 104.00 Centre 98.50 Schuylkill 96.00

Table 2. Top 10 counties by participants

County Participants Franklin 69 Indiana 63 Bucks 59 Philadelphia 56 Erie 51 Lancaster 44 Bedford 39 Berks 39 Westmoreland 37 Juniata 34

We may be fast approaching the day when eBird will represent a very complete data set. It is becoming more and more reliable as more and more users take advantage of this technological tool. Perhaps one day it will be used as the central repository for reporting data for the PAMC.

Species encountered

PAMC 2012 yielded new high counts

(HC) for 15 species and tied the high count for 5 others. Since 1992, a total of 290 species have been found on the count.

Representing the only new species for the PAMC found this year, 19 very late Brant were found in Lancaster. Trumpeter Swan, Hooded Mer-ganser, and Common Merganser were all found in record numbers. Tundra Swan and Canvasback tied their old high numbers. With the increase in nesting in Pennsylvania, it should be no surprise that Bald Eagle more than doubled its previous high count! Little Blue Heron, Black Vulture, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Peregrine Falcon, Sandhill Crane, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Barn Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Eastern Whip-poor-will, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Acadian Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Great Crested Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo,


Red-eyed Vireo, Purple Martin, Gray Catbird, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, Mourning Warbler, Fox Sparrow, and Summer Tanager were also recorded as a new HCs. Yellow Rail and Prothonotary Warbler tied their old HCs. Once again, American Robin was the most recorded species with 14,084 individuals observed. A total of 135 species were recorded in numbers above the ten year average. Table 3. Most abundant species

Species Individuals American Robin 14084 Red-winged Blackbird 10154 European Starling 9307 Common Grackle 8634 Gray Catbird 8189 Canada Goose 8026 Red-eyed Vireo 5690 Barn Swallow 5491 American Crow 4968 Tree Swallow 4347

Table 4. Birds per party hour

County Total Birds Birds/Hr. Butler 4425 295.0 Lawrence 1441 221.7 Northumberland 695 126.3 Juniata 11550 122.2 Warren 446 111.5 Adams 2078 109.3 McKean 4266 108.0 Northampton 4214 100.3 Union 2761 98.6 Clarion 1633 96.1

Unfortunately, there were also 116

species below the ten year average. Only one Surf Scoter was found out of the 3 possible species. Merlin numbers were down for unknown reasons. Shorebird numbers were low, and gulls seemed lower as well. Tern numbers and species were also much lower than average. No Black Terns were located for count day. Ruby-throated Hummingbird numbers were lower this year, but still above average for the count. Bank Swallow numbers were again lower. Vesper Sparrow numbers continue to decline on the count. American Goldfinches and House Finches also remain below count average numbers.

Somerset located the most species of any county with 168. Bucks tallied the highest number of individual birds with 13,050.

Geese through Ducks

Most waterfowl numbers were well

below the average count. The nice weather did not produce any weather-related fallouts.

A total 154 Snow Geese were counted with 96 in Dauphin. As mentioned, 19 Brant were new to the count and all were found in Lancaster.

Canada Goose numbers were above average for PAMC, with 8026 in 62 of 63 counties, with the average count being 7733 for all previous years. Nine Trumpeter Swans were found this year, with 7 in Franklin, and 7 Tundra Swans were located, 4 of which were in Bucks.

Mallard numbers were slightly above average this year at 2574. However, only 3 species of ducks were found with either a new high count or with a tied high count. Canvasback (28) matched the high count while Hooded Merganser (136) and Common Merganser (243) surpassed their high counts. American Wigeon underwent a large fallout on the count day last year, but this year there were only 3 found. Bedford had 2 of them. Butler had the only 3 Northern Shovelers of the count. Six of just 19 total American Black Duck were found in Bucks. The only scoter was a lone Surf Scoter in Northampton. Erie had one each of Greater Scaup and Redhead, the only of either species found on count day. A total of 159 Wood Ducks were found in Juniata. Butler and Juniata each had 8 of the 20 Red-breasted Mergansers.

Fowl through waders

Ruffed Grouse, our state bird, were

found in about the same numbers as last year with 116 in 33 counties. Centre led the way with 19. A meager 85 Ring-necked Pheasant were observed. A nice total of 518 Wild Turkeys were tallied. Very likely, most or all of the 13 Northern Bobwhites were released birds

Luzerne had 18 Common Loons. Five of the 27 Horned Grebe were in Luzerne. Again, no Great Cormorants were found this year; however, 762 Double-crested Cormorants were tallied, 128 in Bucks.

One Least Bittern was found in both Erie and Susquehanna, and 11 American Bitterns were found. A new high count of 5 Little Blue Herons was reached, with 2 in Bedford and 2 in Erie. York held 35 Black-crowned Night Herons of the 41 found on the count. A total of 91 Great Egrets were found, with 21 in Dauphin.

Vultures, raptors

A nice total of 2993 Turkey

Vultures were observed in 60 out of 63 counties. Black Vultures turned up in high numbers with a total of 506 in 25 counties, 161 in Lancaster alone. A great total of 184 Osprey were reported from 44 counties. One Golden Eagle was located in Erie. Bald Eagles are also continuing to increase, with a new high count of 252 in 47 counties. Juniata led

with 23. Just 16 Northern Harriers were found. Red-tailed Hawks were almost double last year, and above average with 856 located in 60 counties. New high counts were recorded for Red-shouldered Hawks and Broad-winged Hawks at 74 and 160, respectively. Broad-winged Hawks were located in 40 counties.

Falcons were also well represented. There was a respectable total of 217 American Kestrels found. Only 2 Merlins were located count day (Cumberland and Franklin), despite observations at numerous locations only a week before the count. The total of 25 Peregrine Falcons was a new high count; 6 were found in both Clinton Philadelphia.

Rails and shorebirds

Single Yellow Rails were located in

Butler and Franklin. Eleven Sandhill Cranes were found, a new high count. A total of 93 American Coots were seen, 27 in Somerset alone. Eight Common Moorhen were located with 2 each in Butler and Tioga. The totals for Virginia Rails and Sora were 31 and 21, respectively, with no large single-county totals.

Numbers of shorebirds were lower than last year. One American Golden-Plover was found in Franklin, one Pectoral Sandpiper was in Somerset, and one Sanderling was in Bradford. Two White-rumped Sandpipers in Somerset were a bit early. Killdeer were higher with 713 located in 57 of the 63 reporting counties. A total of 81 Semipalmated Plovers were found with, 27 in Lancaster. Just 8 Upland Sandpipers were located. A fine tally of 1030 Least Sandpipers was made, with 486 in Lancaster. Nine Short-billed Dowitchers were located , all but one in Crawford. A total of 544 Spotted Sandpiper were found in 50 counties; 83 of them were in Juniata, a rather large percentage of the state total. Forty-eight of 362 Solitary Sandpipers were found in Bucks. Twenty-one of 121 Lesser Yellowlegs were in Lancaster, and 13 of 91 Greater Yellowlegs were in Bedford. Seven of 16 Dunlin were in Franklin. In total, 17 species of shorebirds were found for the count.

Gulls and terns

Ring-billed Gulls lead the count

among gulls with 1709 in 23 counties, with 1068 in Lancaster. A total of 574 Laughing Gulls were found with 550 in Bucks. This number was well below last year’s count. Bucks had 505 of the 520 Herring Gulls reported. Six Lesser Black-backed Gulls were all in Bucks. No white-winged gulls were found on the


count, leaving the total at just six species for the 2012 PAMC.

Only 3 species of tern were found. Two of the 5 Caspian Terns were located in Crawford. Single Common Terns in Forest and Lancaster comprised the whole tally for the species. All 5 Forster’s Terns found were in Butler. No Black Terns was missed.

Doves through nightjars

Seven of 9 Eurasian Collared-

Doves were reported from Franklin. Mourning Doves were found in all 63 reporting counties with a total of 4083. Eighty Yellow-billed Cuckoos were found, and 128 Black-billed Cuckoos included 30 in Monroe.

A new high count for the declining Barn Owl was 30 were across 3 counties, including 23 in Union. A new high count of 18 Northern Saw-whet Owls was reported from four counties; 15 were in McKean. The total of 73 Barred Owls was just 13 shy of their high count. Reports of Great Horned Owl and Eastern Screech-Owl were both off. One Short-eared Owl was found in Butler. Two Long-eared Owls formed a another high count, one each in Huntingdon and McKean.

A new high count for Eastern Whip-poor-will (218) included 49 in Schuylkill. Just 58 Common Nighthawks were tallied, with 12 in Northampton.

Hummingbirds through swallows

Bedford reported 68 of this year’s

577 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. Franklin had 13 of the 56 Red-headed Woodpeckers observed The 1827 Red-bellied Woodpeckers was just shy of a high count. They were found in 62 of 63 counties reporting. A new high count of 200 Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, were reported, with 67 from McKean. A total of 439 Pileated Woodpeckers were recorded in 57 of the 63 counties during the count. Eighty-four of 902 Downy Woodpeckers were reported from Bucks, and 23 Hairy Woodpeckers were found in both Juniata and Montgomery out of the 312 seen in the state on count day.

Schuylkill and Westmoreland each reported 2 Olive-sided Flycatchers of the 8 found on the count. Just 4 Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were reported on the count, 2 in Union. Eastern Wood-Pewee was tallied in 48 counties. Centre had 9 of the new high count of 35 Alder Flycatchers. Forty-five counties reported 271 Least Flycatchers with Wayne tallying 37. Juniata reported 70 of the new high count of 469 Acadian Flycatchers seen count day. Butler held 31 of 183 Willow Flycatchers for the

day. A fine total of 1243 Eastern Phoebes were recorded in 61 counties. A new high count of 1008 Great Crested Flycatchers was reached, with 107 located in Bucks alone, over 10% of the total. The total of 921 Eastern Kingbirds just missed the all-time high of 933.

Two vireo species hit high counts during the 2012 PAMC. Warbling Vireos clocked in at 910 with 116 individuals tallied in Juniata. Indiana tallied 524 of the Red-eyed Vireos new high count of 5690 observed. Red-eyed Vireos were recorded in 62 of 63 counties. A total of 244 Yellow-throated Vireos were found in 45 counties with 33 found in Juniata, and 226 White-eyed Vireos were found in 35 counties with 21 in Franklin. Just 20 Philadelphia Vireos were found; appropriately, Philadelphia led the way with 4. McKean recorded 57 of the 276 Blue-headed Vireos.

A total of 91 of the 421 Fish Crows were reported from Lancaster. Blue Jays and American Crows were recorded in all reporting counties. Impressive were the 200 Common Ravens observed; 19 of these were reported from Bradford. Only 96 Horned Larks were found count day with 15 found in Cumberland.

Tree Swallow tallied at 4347 which was lower than the count average for the second year in a row. Bucks had 500 of these. Lancaster had the highest number of Purple Martins with 313 out of 1726. This was a new high count for Purple Martin. Barn Swallow was seen in 59 of 63 counties; Franklin had 413. Butler had 466 of the 1327 Cliff Swallows, no doubt bolstered by the long-standing colonies around Lake Arthur. Bucks had 50 of the 384 Bank Swallows observed.

Chickadees through waxwings

There were only 274 “chickadee

species” reported this year with 15 counties now reporting hybrids. A total of 655 Carolina Chickadees were reported in 18 counties with 124 in Bucks, while 1275 Black-capped Chickadees were reported in 54 counties with 138 in Indiana. All counties reported Tufted Titmouse with 2225 total individuals. A total of 59 counties recorded 736 White-breasted Nuthatches and 15 counties recorded 30 Red-breasted Nuthatch. Huntington had 7 of the Red-breasted. McKean had 9 of the 49 Brown Creepers seen.

Thirty-five Winter Wrens were located with 9 in McKean. Philadelphia accounted for 9 out of the 23 Marsh Wrens. A good total of 1204 Carolina Wrens in 54 counties was higher than last year; 198 were in Juniata. A total of 1354 House Wrens were located in 62 counties. This was higher than the count

average, and a big improvement in numbers over last year. One Sedge Wren was found in Westmoreland. Another bird that was tallied less than average for count again this year was the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, with just 28 birds in 13 counties. Perhaps the early spring and the late count date had something to do with this. Somerset reported 6 of the 37 Golden-crowned Kinglets.

A total of 1030 Blue-gray Gnatcatchers were recorded with 111 in Bucks. Eastern Bluebird was reported from 62 of 63 for a total of 1773. Bucks and Union each found 2 of the 7 Gray-cheeked Thrushes. Eighty-four Swainson’s Thrush were found with 11 in Bucks. Forty-three Hermit Thrushes were found in McKean of the 197 total. A good total of 208 Wood Thrushes out of the 2937 found were in Berks. A total of 454 Veery were located with 66 also in Berks. American Robin numbers were lower than in 2011 with 14,084. A total of 171 American Pipits were found in 10 counties with 73 in Cumberland providing a large percentage of the total.

Gray Catbird established a new high count of 8189 individuals with 707 in Bucks. There were 998 Northern Mockingbirds observed with 134 in Franklin. A total of 2795 Cedar Waxwings were tallied in 55 counties.

Warblers

There were 36 species of warbler

found on the 2012 PAMC. Three species set new records and one species tied an old record. Chestnut-sided Warbler surpassed its old record with a total of 1007 individuals and 86 in Wayne. Prothonotary Warbler tied its high count of 18, with Lancaster providing 2/3 of these with 12. Mourning Warbler had a count of 28, two individuals higher than the previous high count. A very good total of 266 Northern Waterthrush also established a new high count, with 52 in Juniata. Single Orange-crowned Warblers were located in Butler and Clinton. One Connecticut Warbler was seen and heard at Kinzua Bridge State Park in McKean.

Just 53 Golden-winged Warblers were located with 15 in Huntington. Blue-winged Warblers were tallied in 45 counties with Schuylkill providing 27 of 337. Both winged-warbler hybrids were found on count day. Single Brewster’s Warblers were located in Huntington, Indiana, and Greene, and one Lawrence’s Warbler was found in Franklin.

Twenty-two of the 178 Tennessee Warblers came from Indiana. McKean had 13 of the 116 Nashville Warblers found. A good total of 505 Northern


Parulas were found with 83 in Bucks. McKean had 120 of the 458 Blackburnian Warblers. A total of 2969 Yellow Warblers were tallied in 59 counties, and 452 Magnolia Warblers were located with 61 in McKean. Always a crowd-pleaser, 45 Cape May Warblers were observed, with 8 in Butler. A total of 613 Black-throated Blue Warblers included 74 in Bucks. Bucks had 171 of 1202 Yellow-rumped Warblers. A total of 823 Black-throated Green Warblers were tallied with 84 each from Indiana County and McKean. Just 50 Yellow-throated Warblers were found with 13 from Bedford. An early migrant, 52 Pine Warblers were tallied with 10 found in Cumberland. A species likely to be on territory by count day is parairie Warbler; 302 were seen on the 2012 PAMC with 38 in Juniata.

Just 23 Palm Warblers were counted. Also low were 67 Bay-breasted Warblers, of which 16 were in Butler. A good showing of 388 Blackpoll Warblers included 54 in Philadelphia. Franklin tallied 27 of the 150 Cerulean Warblers, another species that likely included only breeders by count day. Eight out of 54 Kentucky Warblers observed were found in Butler. Schuylkill had 72 out of 691 Black-and-white Warblers this year. Franklin accounted for 172 of the 2001 American Redstarts observed on the count. A total of 162 Worm-eating Warblers were observed with 21 found in Juniata. Ovenbirds were seen in well above average numbers with 3829 observed in 60 of 63 counties; 334 were in Schuylkill.

A total of 263 Louisiana Waterthrush were seen, including 34 in Juniata. Birders in the Marcellus Shale counties should be keeping more detailed records of these birds to detect if there is any impact due to natural gas drilling in those areas. Indiana held 73 of the 675 Hooded Warblers and 339 of the 3928 Common Yellowthroats. Forty-four Wilson’s Warblers were observed with 6 located in Schuylkill. A total of 150 Canada Warblers were tallied with 29 in Union. Greene contributed 14 of the 100 Yellow-breasted Chats.

Sparrows through cardinals

A total of 2752 Eastern Towhees

were located in 62 of 63 counties. Three Clay-colored Sparrows were found in Clarion, an area where continue to breed. Twenty-nine of 62 American Tree Sparrows were found in Bedford. A good count of 3235 Chipping Sparrows were located in 62 of the 63 counties, with 274 in Indiana. Just 41 Henslow’s Sparrows were found, with 15 in Indiana. Fifty-seven counties reported 1259 Field Sparrows. Five of just 21 Vesper Sparrows were located in

Franklin. This year’s count was less than half its average. A total of 208 Savannah Sparrows were recorded with 27 in Butler. The 136 Grasshopper Sparrows included 19 both Franklin and Somerset.

A total of 254 Dark-eyed Juncos were located, 86 in McKean. Eighteen of 109 White-crowned Sparrows were also tallied in McKean County and 28 of 310 White-throated Sparrows were in Lancaster. Eleven Fox Sparrows fell just short of a new high count, with 7 found in Elk. Lincoln’s Sparrow was seen in eight counties with Union reporting 2 of the 9 total. There were 320 Swamp Sparrows were tallied with 47 in Butler. Just one Dickcissel was reported on count day, in Lancaster. This seems extraordinary when looking back on the Dickcissel invasion that ensued in the summer.

There was a high count of 10 Summer Tanager, with 9 in Wayne. Hopefully this extraordinary report will be followed up with details provided to PORC. A total of 170 of the 2065 Scarlet Tanagers were found in Indiana, along with 76 of 1019 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. Three of 6 Blue Grosbeaks were in Indiana. Indiana also had 359 of 4305 Northern Cardinals. Indigo Bunting was reported from 62 counties with Juniata tallying 263 of 2137.

Blackbirds through finches

A total of 1174 Bobolinks were

reported with 220 in Bucks. Just 14 Rusty Blackbirds, a bird of concern, were reported in 6 counties with 4 of in Bedford and 4 in Butler. Very impressive were 10,154 Red-winged were seen in 60 counties. A total of 8634 Common Grackles were reported in 61 counties, and 1972 Brown-headed Cowbirds were reported from 60 counties. A total of 651 Eastern Meadowlarks were reported from 54 counties with 66 in Butler.

Orchard Orioles were reported from 42 counties with Bucks providing 54 of the 505 seen. Orchard Orioles just missed a new high count by 11 individuals. A total of 3370 Baltimore Orioles were found in 61 counties with 307 in Juniata.

Pine Siskins were reported in eight counties; McKean had 9 of the 31 located. Seven Common Redpolls were found in Wayne. A surprising 18 Evening Grosbeaks were reported in Bedford. A total of 105 House Finches were reported in Bucks out of 1562 total. They were reported in 58 counties. There were 196 Purple Finches in 32 counties with 34 found in McKean. A total of 3575 American Goldfinches were located across all 63 reporting counties; 224 of these were found in Juniata. Both

American Goldfinch and Purple Finch numbers remain below the count average.

The PAMC Future

Once again birders across the state

have proven that the PAMC is alive and worthwhile. A lot of publicity and effort went into this year’s count. Numerous reminders and emails, even some phone calls, and occasionally, yes, some prodding. This year the numbers of participants were up 138 observers. This in turn increased the birding time afield by almost 225 hours. This, in a large part, helped to increase the total number of birds observed by 9856 individual birds and up the all-time species list by one! Birders in Pennsylvania responded to the call to take up binoculars and responded with vigor.

There were many posts, both on the PABirds listserv and on facebook, regarding the fact that migration was over before the count began. But a g;ance at the warbler list (and that of other families), reveals that many non-breeders were still passing through the state, and that many species that do breed in the state were recorded in areas where they do not breed. Data shows that migration is still occurring during the count day. The lack of “migrants” should not be an argument against conducting the PAMC in any case, as the purpose of the count is to record any changes in patterns of migration over time.

Hopefully, next year we will see reports from the four missing counties in 2012: Columbia, Fulton, Pike, and Washington. I know it is unfair to ask for more volunteered time from the birding community in Pennsylvania—but we are asking anyway! We improved the 2011 PAMC county count by 10 counties. Surely we can add those last 4 and reach 100% participation? All it takes is one or 2 birders participating to represent the county. Let’s shoot for all 67 counties in 2013.

With that being said, 2013 looks to be a year to continue improvements. Circle May 11, 2013 on your calendars now! Start to round up birding crews. Make the day what it is, a celebration of migration. Everyone, new and old birders alike, can have another stupendous celebration for next year’s PAMC!

Summary

Looking at this report with 63 of 67

counties reporting, and knowing that most of the non-represented counties have a solid birding community, we are still hoping for more participation from birders and bird clubs in the future. It was said here last year, and it is still appropriate today: The PAMC has really


only taken off in Pennsylvania. We have two decades of data that can be used to describe changes in species dynamics and in migration. Personally, I think we should make an effort to increase participation. I fervently hope to see 67 counties participating next year!

The information in this write-up is only a summary and interpretation. The complete data can be found at <www.pabirds.org>. Please log on and check it out. There may be something interesting that is not covered here.

Thanks go out to all the participants

who collected data this year. A very sincere thank you goes out to everyone who participated in the PAMC this year for the first time or once again after an absence. We look forward to seeing all of you collecting more data next year!

Please note that the 2013 count will take place on MAY 11, 2013. Mark your calendars now!

Editor’s Note: Readers are reminded

that the complete PAMC 2012 results by species for all counties can be found on the PSO website, <www.pabirds.org>.

John Fedak

26 Race Street Bradford, PA 16701

[email protected]

Frank Haas (data compiler) 2469 Hammertown Road

Narvon, PA 17555 [email protected]

The case of the dangling woodpecker August Mirabella The picture of the Hairy Woodpecker accompanying this article raised my curiosity when I received it from Ken and Betty Kitson, who were passing it on from mutual friends, Bob and Pat Whitacre. They live in the relatively rural area of Tinicum Twp., Bucks County. We all wondered how this bird met its peculiar demise, stuck in what I was told was soft cedar clapboard siding. This happened in mid-March, and the dead bird hung there until mid-April when it finally fell off. That was all they knew. I sent the picture to Scott Weidensaul, who of course was incredibly generous sharing his immense knowledge and experience with the birding community. He surmised that the slippery painted surface did not give adequate grip for the bird to pull its bill out. However, unless it gripped the edge of the board to begin with, how did it get enough hold to get enough force for its bill to get stuck? I submitted this suggestion of what might have happened and the picture to my local Yahoo! Group BucksCoBirders, and a rather interesting response was received from Rick Mellon of Mellon Biological Services, LLC. He is a long time Bucks birder. His analysis reminded me of a crime scene investigation analysis. Here is what he suggested as an alternative explanation: The bird flew into the side of the building and broke its neck. Evidence supporting the view:

The bird is not beaten up. If it were stuck for long enough to die (days?), I would expect the bird’s feathers to be extensively damaged, yet there’s no sign of struggle.

There are no scratch marks on the paint as one would expect with a struggling bird. Why would it choose painted wood to excavate when raw wood is inches away? There is a chip of paint by the bill that

almost certainly would have been popped off if the bird had been struggling to extract his bill.

If the bill was stuck so tight the bird couldn’t pull it out, why would it fall out a month later?

How could it fly into a building? Possible reasons:

It was dumb, even for a bird. It was being chased by a raptor in poor

light conditions. It was chased from its roost hole at night

and saw the light colored building and thought it represented an opening in the pitch black forest.

It had eye problems: conjunctivitis, etc. It was just really dumb.

We will never know for sure how this happened and you may have your own opinion that differs from the above. However, I think readers probably will agree that this was a very unusual occurrence, and just downright weird. I want to thank Scott and Rick for letting me use their thoughts and for reviewing this article.

1443 Wheaton Lane North Wales, PA 19454

[email protected]

Bob and Pat Whitaker


BOOK REVIEW Gene Wilhelm

THE BLUEBIRD EFFECT: UNCOMMON BONDS WITH COMMON BIRDS by Julie Zickefoose, with over 300 illustrations by the author, notes, index, 8 x 8 in., xxiv + 355 pp., published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Boston and New York, 2012, hardcover, $28.00.

Julie Zickefoose, author of this tome, is well known in Pennsylvania, having lectured at numerous events as well as the painter of the covers of the first and second Atlas of Breeding Birds in Pennsylvania. I first met Julie at McKeever Environmental Learning Center in Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania, where she gave an extraordinary program on the Eastern Bluebird, heavily illustrated with her own glorious color paintings and pencil drawings. Ever since, I have had a special empathy for all avian rehabilitators.

Thanks to her parents, Julie was introduced at a young age to birds and nature. Actually, petting the bare head of a tom turkey in a petting zoo was the trigger that awakened something “deep and primal” in her, a conviction that there was “someone” in that big body of a bird. This early perception of nature is a rare gift among our kind, and allowed Julie to continually advance in the process of human awareness and sensitivity to all life. Proof of such a holistic credo is this marvelous memoir.

Julie began her college experience at Harvard where she majored in biological anthropology, an appropriate choice as it turned out, yet she contrived how to take independent studies on bird behavior without having to take organic chemistry. Although she wanted to be an ornithologist, she could not dissect birds, measure them, or reduce them to mathematical equations, which was the trend in ornithology at that time. So, in 1976 she became an illustrator of natural history subjects at Harvard, followed by a six-year stint as a field biologist with the Connecticut Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. This experience motivated her both to learn more about ecology and to return to drawing. She gradually began to write essays about her personal observations of birds, using copious notes and pencil drawings that became her forte. The Bluebird Effect teems with these delightful sidebar additions (over 300) that originally came from a daily nature log. Today, Julie and her family live in a ranch home in southern Ohio topped by a 42-foot high bird-watching tower so that she can more easily see those canopy-dwelling neotropical birds.

Pennsylvania’s own Scott

Weidensaul, friend of Zickefoose, sets the tone of the book in his Foreword. “If anything, I’ve come to understand how little we know about the most common birds,” he says, “how they perceive the world around them... how a bird perceives us, we strange bipedal primates that have reshaped every aspect of their landscape. But few of us interact with birds in quite the way that Julie Zickefoose does... Throughout her life, Julie has been dealing with birds on a much more direct, sometimes startlingly intimate level than most people—as a biologist, rehabilitator, artist, and conservationist.” Also, as an adept self-trained veterinarian, citizen scientist, renowned writer, birder, and intriguing story teller, I might add, with tales stretching back decades in which she explores interrelationships, inter-connections, and intimate bonding between human and bird.

Julie admits that this book is many things—a sketchbook, a journal, an attempt to understand birds. “But it is not a dispassionate recitation of scientific truths about birds,” she notes. “This book is as much about my process of learning about birds as it is about them. You will find me naming some of the birds and, when I know their sex, referring to them with the pronouns he, she, and who rather than it or that. They are birds, not people; I know that. But for me they are not merely objects of study or admiration. Birds, as I know them, are individuals... I live for the moment when my gaze meets a bird’s—that exchange of awareness of the “who” in each of us, the spark of understanding leaping from the bright bead of its eye to mine.” This is a confirmed mutual exchange of privileges, and is called reciprocity. As Widensaul comments, “[W]hat makes The Bluebird Effect such a rare and important book is how Julie provides from her own unusual life plenty of examples of times that birds do reciprocate – the ‘uncommon bonds’ of its title, when birds appeared to repay her passion and concern with, if not love, then trust and what may even be gratitude.” In fact, reciprocity is a positive feeling, sharing, and bonding between higher animals, such as birds, mammals, and humans, and is surprisingly ancient

What is so uplifting about these interactions between human and bird is that it happens with backyard birds that many of us experience on a daily basis: Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, European Starling, Black-capped Chickadee, Barn Swallow, Carolina Wren, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Tufted Titmouse, Chimney Swift, Rose-

breasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager, Eastern Phoebe, White-throated Sparrow, Orchard Oriole, Red-tailed Hawk, Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, and Turkey Vulture. Also included are admittedly less common species like Osprey, Piping Plover, Least Tern, Ruffed Grouse, Savannah Sparrow, and Sandhill Crane. Even the probably extinct Ivory-billed Woodpecker, receives a chapter of its own. Each of the 26 chapters features a different story of that species, with each bird always receiving undivided attention and, if needed, lengthy personal care that often stretched into weeks or even months.

It is obvious, after reading the individual stories in this book, that Julie doesn’t just describe her avian companions, but rather engages birds on their own level, trying to interpret and understand what it is that makes them “who” they are. Julie is a true surrogate, a rare, gifted human being who speaks for and with the birds. Still, she recognizes that humans are both different, in their nature or being, and similar, in their perception and emotional life. This is not a dichotomy for her but parts of her credo that fit the mode of the current scientific era characterized and guided by four primary principles: differentiation, interiority, community, and change. This revealing book contains all of these principles. Likewise, other ornithologists are currently unveiling similar results (see What the Robin Knows by Jon Young, Pennsylvania Birds, Vol. 26, No. 2, p 83.) as one among many recent examples.

In conclusion, The Bluebird Effect is a “must read” for people who associate with birds. Readers will come to understand that the many tribulations and fewer triumphs of raising and rehabilitating wild birds require a special person with extraordinary gifts. Julie Zickefoose is such a person. She has said that she wanted to write and illustrate books that no one else could. This title is proof of that statement. It portrays a keen sense of the incredible complexity of avian minds and responses to their daily challenges and further introduces an ethical responsibility for humans to come to the aid of Earth’s fellow companions. Indeed, it is fitting testimony giving birds credit for much more than most humans, yes, even some ornithologists, might imagine birds think, feel or do. Thanks, Julie, for helping, thinking, and speaking like birds.

513 Kelly Blvd. Slippery Rock, PA 16057-1145

[email protected]


Summary of the Season Dan Brauning, Summer Season Editor

The Summer Season is the shortest of Pennsylvania Birds’ four seasons, just two months in length. It is designed to focus on the time of year when migration is at a minimum and the majority of species are nesting. It is successful in documenting nesting birds; county reports are full of breeding observations, including this year’s nesting attempts by the exotic Monk Parakeet (see Lehigh and Luzerne), documentation by state-endangered species nesting (Least Bittern, Chester), and more routine nesting events such as a Killdeer in a parking lot. Since the 2nd PBBA project is completed and now published, the summer season report is the only place in which details are compiled of some rare nesting birds in Pennsylvania, such as Merlin and Sandhill Cranes. These compiled records provide many insights of county significance, and statewide patterns of species not tracked by the Game Commission as listed species.

However, it is altogether obvious that the majority of species highlighted in this and previous summer summaries are vagrants and out-of-season records of unexpected migrants, just like any other season. The largest groups of species summarized herein are waterfowl and shorebirds, few of which breed in the state! Waterfowl linger into the summer season for a variety of reasons, and many did so this year. With a narrow arctic breeding season, there’s hardly a week from May through September in which some shorebird species isn’t moving north or south. These also contribute to interesting and diverse summer reports.

There is an obstacle facing county compilers and the summer seasonal editor interested in breeding birds, however. The best ongoing monitoring program for nesting birds in North America is the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), a national survey conducted by a handful of birders each June. Not to be confused with the Breeding Bird Atlas, the BBS is an annual program based on point counts, compiled nationally by the US Geological Survey. The results of BBS routes are a welcome supplement to summer birding observations, often referenced by county compilers who conduct these routes themselves. But, by the time county reports are due, statewide summaries of BBS data aren’t available, unless the results are personally passed along by the counter. Long-term BBS data provide the most reliable source for estimating population trends for the state (or larger areas), but the widely-scattered routes are not intended to provide details at a county level, and they predominately detect

widespread and common species anyway. So, the most systematic nesting bird data typically do not make a large contribution to the summer season.

The recently published Second Atlas of Breeding Birds in Pennsylvania provides the definitive distribution of all nesting birds as of 2009. The Atlas will serve as an important reference for future summer season reports. Now that it is available, county compilers can reference the Second Atlas to identify major changes in breeding bird distribution within their counties.

So, despite the design of the “Summer Season” (and probably just as well for the sake of diversity), this issue’s “Local Notes” and county summaries are a diverse collection of breeding birds, highlights of migratory shorebird observations, and reports of lingering waterfowl, vagrant herons, and raptors.

Just like every season, birds are highly influenced by the weather conditions not only here in Pennsylvania, but sometimes across the country. The Penn State Climatologist, Kyle Imhoff, reported in the “the Pennsylvania [weather] Observer”, that the month of June was a rollercoaster ride of large temperature swings, bookended by severe weather outbreaks. June began with severe weather across the state as a result of a warm front located just to the south of the region. Some tornadoes were reported in portions of southern Pennsylvania, and on 6/3, more severe weather occurred across the state following a cold frontal passage. Through much of the country and here, June was extremely hot and dry. June ended with another severe weather event on the evening of 6/28. July was warm, but rainfall returned to Pennsylvania to mitigate the worst of the drought conditions. The month ended with another line of strong storms on 7/26, which produced EF1 tornadoes across the northern tier including one in Luzerne and one in Susquehanna.

This year, a particularly long list of waterfowl lingered through this season, none of which provided unusual nesting records, but together formed an unusually extensive list (for the summer). That list was highlighted by a single-day sighting of 2 Black-bellied Whistling-Duck at Middle Creek WMA, Lancaster. Seen and photographed, they didn’t remain long. This summer also include several dabblers each reported from just a single county (Gadwall in Centre, American Wigeon in Erie, and Northern Pintail in Bucks). It also includes diving ducks, such as Redhead and Ring-necked Duck which have

nested in Pennsylvania’s past, although none of the 2012 summer reports suggested nesting behavior for these species. Three species with no historic breeding history in the state filled out the waterfowl list for June: four White-winged Scoters on the Susquehanna River 6/6 may well be the second June record of this species in Pennsylvania (a bird summered at John Heinz Refuge at Tinicum in 1966), a Long-tailed Duck on a pond in Lebanon during the first week of June was nearly as uncommon, and a Greater Scaup away from Lake Erie was exceptional for June. Ruddy Duck were found eight counties.

Observations of Black-crowned Night-Heron and Yellow-crowned Night-Heron included sightings closely associated with known nesting colonies, but also post-breeding dispersal typical. Not mentioned in the county report, the state’s largest nesting colony of Black-crowns now is associated with the Ephrata Hospital, Lancaster, where 83 nests were counted in trees surrounding a parking lot. The heron colony on Wade Island, Dauphin, has been dwindling, and was down to 67 nests in 2012. Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were reported primarily in southeastern counties, and nested only in Harrisburg (Dauphin), but a Jefferson observation was quite out of range. Annual post-breeding Snowy Egrets and only a single report of Tricolored Heron made for a fairly tame season for wading birds.

Bald Eagles continue to expand their nesting range, with young fledging from well over 200 nests statewide during June and July, found in over 51 counties. Another raptor for which the breeding range has expanded dramatically (although not yet including Pennsylvania) is the Mississippi Kite. It just barely made it into the summer season through a passing sighting in Bucks in early June.

Definite nesting records of Northern Goshawk were recorded, although the particular locations are not mentioned in Forest. The few reports reflect the status of this bird during the breeding season—it is now very scarce across the state in summer. The six counties listing Merlin reflect the expanding nesting range for this species, first confirmed breeding in Pennsylvania in 2006 and expanded to five counties with confirmed breeding by the end of the Second Breeding Bird Atlas in 2009. The 2012 reports confirm that some of these locations as regular nesting areas (e.g., McKean), while the continued nesting status of most of the Atlas locations is unclear. Birders could help to determine


if Merlins continue to nest at sites in years after they’ve been first discovered, to distinguish whether or not these events were aberrations. The expansion to Somerset was remarkable. Nesting could occur nearly anywhere in the state, it appears.

Another bird expanding its breeding range, the Sandhill Crane was reported in several counties, confirming that it cam be reliably found nesting in Bradford, Lawrence, and Crawford. Nesting has yet to be confirmed in Somerset, where a pair was noted, but such would mark a southeastern limit for the species, very much like the Merlin. The King Rail is a rare nester, listed as Endangered. The Middle Creek WMA report was hopeful.

The rarest bird reported during this season was the Snowy Plover, seen and photographed 6/3-4 at Gull Point in Erie. Presumably the same bird observed was at Conneaut Harbor, Ohio 6/2; this is the second Erie record for the species and the fourth state record. Other notable shorebirds found during the first days of June in Somerset include 2 Red Knot and 23 White-rumped Sandpipers. The above-mentioned weather events probably contributed to these records.

A Piping Plover was seen 7/13 at Sunset Point of Presque Isle State Park, not Gull Point, but each observation of this species on Presque Isle raises hopes that it may one day return as a nester. Habitat management this year at Gull Point is designed to arrest succession, particularly of non-native plants, and to sustain beach habitat for the plover and the Common Tern.

Another notable shorebird event were the large numbers and diversity of species at the John Heinz Refuge at Tinicum, Philadelphia in July. How many years has it been since thousands of shorebirds, primarily comprised of Semipalmated Sandpiper and Least Sandpiper, occupied the flats along Darby Creek? Apparently many! But this year, “10 species during most days” were found in mid-July, included impressive counts of Stilt Sandpiper, dozens of Lesser and Greater yellowlegs, and other less common species, notably up to 5 Western Sandpipers.

Normally reported in only a few counties per season, Andy Wilson and collaborators found Upland Sandpipers in six counties as the result of a statewide survey. Thanks to the input of many county compilers, he as able to find a total of 19 males, with a notable concentration in Clarion. American Avocets were found in 4 counties, all during July, and a Whimbrel appeared twice at Tamarack Lake, Crawford. A Red-necked Phalarope in Lancaster 7/29 makes one of very few July records in Pennsylvania’s history.

The most notable nesting event of 2012 was of Common Tern, the state’s first nests since 1995. In fact, two nests were discovered at Gull Point, Presque Isle, by Jerry McWilliams during this season. On 6/22, a Common Tern nest with two eggs was found and on 7/9 a second nest was found containing three eggs. The first nest failed during the second week of July and the second nest failed during the fourth week of July. This later nest incubated for the full 30-day period, but no evidence of hatching could be found. Restoration of a breeding population of Common Terns within the state seems to be within our grasp, although they must overcome overwhelming predation pressures at Gull Point.

Pennsylvania’s other nesting tern historically was the Black Tern. The only report from this season was of a late migrant, in Venango. Typically a colonial nester, the last nesting event documented was a single pair on Presque Isle, Erie, in 2004. That provided the only confirmed nesting evidence during the Second Atlas, and prospects are grim for continued nesting here by this declining species. A 40% decline in New York’s Second Atlas indicates the regional decline being experienced by this species.

Eurasian Collared-Dove persists in a few scattered locations within the state, including at least 2 summering in Centre as well as at the “traditional” location in Franklin. Another exotic species, not as welcome as the collared-dove, was involved two nesting attempts this year. The Monk Parakeets were seen by many in Lehigh until the nests were removed from power poles. The second event followed a similar pattern in Luzerne. While historic nesting attempts have not been tracked well, it has been a long time since Pennsylvania hosted this species, even though it is established the New York City area.

Remarkable changes in nesting bird distributions are documented by the Second Atlas of Breeding Birds in Pennsylvania, just 20 years after the first Atlas was published (1992). This Atlas provides a new benchmark for breeding bird distributions and a reference for county compilers to mark changes since the completion of that fieldwork in 2009. In fact, many nesting events are noted by county compilers which reflect the continual dynamic of nesting birds. For example, a single nest of Cliff Swallow was noted in Allegheny, where they had not nested in the Second Atlas, but had nested in the First Atlas!

For a second year in a row, Chuck-will’s-widow was found through most of the nesting season at Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon. A “southern” nester, Maryland’s Second Atlas reflects a very modest expansion of this species, but its

nesting range does not extend close to the Pennsylvania border. It was very scarce at the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay, but regularly distributed north to the Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge area, around 100 miles south of the Lebanon location.

The passing observation of an immature Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Erie represented a rare June observation. As a breeding bird, there are few rarer than the Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, found on nesting territory in Wyoming by Doug Gross. Always local and ephemeral, the only Sedge Wren came this year from Erie, where two found singing in the Fairview Business Park.

Many nesting reports of warblers are included in county summaries, with most species occurring widely. Nashville Warblers in Huntingdon and Jefferson suggest that it may occur more widely than we suspect, but it is easily overlooked. The persistence of Prothonotary Warbler in Bucks, Crawford, York and other counties is encouraging. This spectacular wetland breeder has persisted even through dry summers. Nest boxes definitely help!

The Summer Tanager is clearly an enigma. After recent nesting events in urban parks (e.g., Schenley, Allegheny in 2011), a pair this year nested in a wooded development in Lebanon and apparently produced two young. These suggest that similar events may be overlooked in other suitable habitats, or at least, similar events could be expected anywhere in southern Pennsylvania.

Tioga was added to the list of counties in which Clay-colored Sparrow has been detected during the nesting season. This species increased by eight times the number of atlas blocks it was found from the fist to second Atlas. This sparrow might be found in brushy conditions (particularly reclaimed surface mines) anywhere across northern Pennsylvania.

The extremely dry conditions of mid-continental United States undoubtedly contributed to the extraordinary Dickcissel invasion reported nearly statewide. Thanks to a compilation done on behalf of the Game Commission by Kathy Korber, and to county compilers, Dickcissels were found in 22 counties during the summer of 2012. That’s more than double the invasion during the first Atlas in 1988 (PA Birds 2:83-87). Although more extensive than that invasion, there were few successful nests this summer, and Dickcissels won’t necessarily return to these sites next year. A more complete summary of this event is being prepared.

1920 Inverness Road

Montoursville, PA 17754 [email protected]


Birds of Note – June through July 2012 This report summarizes unexpected species reported in Pennsylvania for this period. As a general rule birds must have been recorded in five or fewer counties to qualify for inclusion here, but rare species recorded more frequently, or irregular species exhibiting an unusual seasonal occurrence, are also included. “Listserv” indicates records deemed credible which were gleaned from the PABIRDS listserv for counties with no reporting compiler. “eBird” indicates valid records deemed credible which were entered into the eBird database for counties with no reporting compiler. An * denotes species on the Pennsylvania Ornithological Records Committee (PORC) Review List. Details or descriptions that are submitted for species on the PORC Review List will be reviewed by the committee. The terms “no doc” and “doc submitted” indicate whether documentation has been submitted on reports of Review List species listed herein; “no doc” indicates that no documentation was known to have been submitted as of the time of writing. The PORC Review List can be found at the PSO web site <http://www.pabirds.org>. Birds in Italic typeface are uncommon or rare, but occur during this time period in most years. Birds in Underlined typeface occur at least 4 to 7 out of 10 years during this time period. Birds in Italic and Underlined typeface occur fewer than 4 to 7 out of 10 years during this time period. Birds in Normal typeface are noteworthy for rarity, but are recorded annually, usually in more than one county.

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck* – Lancaster: 2 seen and

photographed at Middle Creek WMA 7/26, not relocated (ph. Shawn Loewen).

Snow Goose – Bucks: one injured goose continued through the period at Peace Valley Park (August Mirabella), one also continued at Hilltown Twp. (Howard Eskin), and the long staying pair at Silver Lake, Newtown were still there 6/11 (Bill Keim), with one remaining 7/29 (Mark Gallagher); Lancaster: one with injured wing remained through the period at Middle Creek WMA, and up to 7 were found at Muddy Run 6/9-23 (PABirds - Paul Bernhard); Lebanon: single birds at Mount Pleasant Road, 7/8-22 (Al Guarente, Deuane Hoffman, Tom Johnson, eBird), and Quittapahilla Wetlands (Tim Becker, eBird); Montgomery: first reported at Butter Valley Golf Course 6/12 (PA) and 2 were said to be summering there in July (Joe Greco); Philadelphia: first reported at the Delaware River Trail 6/28 (Martin Dellwo) and then at Tinicum 7/15 into August.

Trumpeter Swan – Chester: one with a Mute Swan 6/6-15 on Chambers Lake (m.ob.), and a pair on Walmart retention pond 6/29-7/5 (m.ob.); Venango: on the Allegheny River north of Kennerdell, first reported to Carole Winslow 7/26 by a relative and was confirmed by Shannon Thompson and Jeff McDonald 7/28, wing tag J53.

Tundra Swan – Erie: at Presque Isle State Park 6/2 (Jim Flynn, m.ob., eBird).

Gadwall – Centre: a female 7/10-30 at Duck Pond (Alex Lamoreaux, Anna Fasoli, Josh Lefever).

American Wigeon – Erie: Presque Isle State Park 7/4 to at least 7/13 (Jerry McWilliams).

Blue-winged Teal – Centre: a female found at Bald Eagle State Park 6/2 (Jim Dunn); Dauphin: male seen at Susquehanna River, West Fairview 7/21 (Richard and Pat Williams); Lancaster: a male lingered from May until 6/3 at the Conejohela Flats (eBird, Eric Witmer); Montgomery: one in heavy molt from 7/15 thru month at Deep Creek area of Green Lane Park (August and Judy Mirabella); Washington: a male at the Robinson Twp. pond 6/9 remained a few weeks (Mark Vass); York: a female with 2 young 7/25 at Brunner Island (eBird, Brian Shade).

Northern Shoveler – Dauphin: observed in the Wildlife Lake south compound 7/12 (Ramsay Koury); Erie: Presque Isle State Park 6/5 (Walter Wehtje), which was a first June record for the county; Philadelphia: after 7/21 a female was at John Heinz N.W.R. at Tinicum (Frank Windfelder).

Northern Pintail – Bucks: a male was at Warminster Community Park, 6/15-17 (Gail Johnson).

Canvasback – Centre: male at the Duck Pond 6/11-23 (Alex Lamoreaux, et al.); Erie: one at Presque Isle State Park through 7/4 (Jerry McWilliams).

Redhead – Centre: a female, first reported 6/11 at the Duck

Pond (Alex Lamoreaux), continued 7/10-30 and was seen by many; Erie: 2 males observed by many at Presque Isle Gull Point (eBird) from 6/1-7/13.

Ring-necked Duck – Centre: for an estimated 20 straight months, a male has called it home at the Duck Pond (Alex Lamoreaux, m.ob.); Lawrence: one 6/1 (eBird, Mark Vass) and 6/10 (eBird, Shannon Thompson) at the Three Rivers gravel ponds; Lycoming: female following storm on Rose Valley Lake 7/6 (Nate Fronk); Northampton: a female on the flyash pond at Martin’s Creek Env. Ed center 6/1-17 (Michael Schall, Corinne Campbell Schall); Washington: female at a pond on Hahn Rd continuing from the winter through the season (Mark Vass, m.ob.).

Greater Scaup – Dauphin: viewed from Marysville 6/6 (Tim Becker); Erie: up to 4 males and 3 females at Presque Isle Gull Point through the season (eBird).

Lesser Scaup – Erie: 2 females at Presque Isle State Park 7/4 to at least 7/13 (Jerry McWilliams).

White-winged Scoter – Dauphin: 4 were observed from Susquehanna River at Fort Hunter 6/6 (Dave McNaughton).

Long-tailed Duck – Lebanon: one at Reistville and Prescott Road Ponds 6/1-8 (Tyler Coleman, Brad Hoffman, fide Alex Lamoreaux).

Bufflehead – Allegheny: one lingered at North Park until 6/17 (Tim Andrle); Dauphin: one or 2 reported on the Susquehanna River at West Fairview through the period (Ramsay Koury); Erie: one at Presque Isle from 6/8 to at least 7/13 (Mark Vass); Philadelphia: a male found at Tinicum 6/11 (Adrian Binns).

Red-breasted Merganser – Centre: one 6/5 at Bald Eagle State Park (Mike Dreibelbis); Dauphin: a male was observed at Susquehanna River from Marysville 7/4, and on the same date a female was noted Susquehanna River at West Fairview (Ramsay Koury), on 7/6 three were observed at Susquehanna River at West Fairview and 2 were present 7/12 (Ramsay Koury); Erie: 6/15 at Presque Isle (Mark Vass); Lycoming: one observed 6/12 at Rose Valley Lake (Nate Fronk); York: one at Gifford Pinchot S.P. 6/20 (Robin Smith), one at Lake Redman 6/30 (John Beatty), and 4 at Codorus State Park 7/21-27 (Karen Lippy).

Ruddy Duck – Chester: at Longwood Gardens 7/28 (Dale Kendall); Crawford: up to 14 at Pymatuning Spillway 6/2-3 (Mark Vass, Ronald F. Leberman) and 5 at the Pymatuning Spillway 6/27 (Ronald F. Leberman), 2 were at Tuttle Point 7/4 (Shawn Collins); Indiana: a drake in alternate plumage lingered at Yellow Creek State Park through 7/8 (Lee Carnahan); Lancaster: 6/20 at Wood’s Edge Pond (Stan Stahl); Lebanon: a pair of was noted at Memorial Lake State Park 6/17 (Ed Bernot) and continued through 6/19 (Randy C. Miller); Philadelphia: male at Tinicum 6/11-24


(Adrian Binns); Venango: one lingered to 6/1 at Kahle Lake (Mark Vass); York: male at Lake Redman lingered from the spring through this period (m.ob).

Horned Grebe – Crawford: two at Pymatuning Spillway 6/2 (Mark Vass); Erie: through the season at Presque Isle State Park, with 2 after 6/15 (Mark Vass) through 7/16 (eBird).

Least Bittern – Chester: documented nesting in the county this summer, but site withheld; Crawford: 7/22 (Shawn Collins) at McMichael Road, and one at Shellito’s Pond 7/29 (Ron F. Leberman); Huntingdon: Marklesburg Waterfowl Area 6/6 (Chuck Yohn); Philadelphia: 6/23 four adults were seen at Tinicum, and on 7/11 there were 3 chicks at a nest (Adrian Binns, m.ob.).

American Bittern – Lebanon: one calling near Iron Valley Drive 6/14-17 (Jim Fiorentino); Sullivan: one in Kettle Creek Bog 6/3 (Susan Killeen, Judy Ford); Tioga: one 6/21 at Marsh Creek (eBird, Nate Fronk, Jim Dunn).

Snowy Egret – Bucks: first noted 7/29 at Rohm and Haas, Bristol (Devich Farbotnik); Chester: adult found and photographed at Cheslen Preserve 6/6 (John McNamara); Lancaster: single bird 7/1 (Meredith Lombard, Joe Yoder) at Conejohela Flats and another 7/27-28 at Rte. 999/441 sand bar (eBird, Meredith Lombard); Philadelphia: 2 at Tinicum 7/27-31.

Tricolored Heron* – Erie: continued from late May at Presque Isle State Park to 6/1 (Jerry McWilliams).

Black-crowned Night-Heron – Berks: the colony formerly centered on Wellington Blvd dispersed to scattered nesting sites, mostly in conifers in nearby yards, sightings at Lake Ontelaunee, and Blue Marsh Lake 7/2 (Stephen Werner); Bucks: numerous reports at various locations (m.ob.), with a high count of 3 at Peace Valley Park 7/25 (August Mirabella); Chester: an imm. was spotted and photographed at Marsh Creek State Park 7/14 (Mike Defina); Dauphin: 8 were observed at Susquehanna River at West Fairview 6/23 (Ramsay Koury), and individuals were reported from South Hanover Twp. 7/5 (Gordan Dimmig), from Wildwood Lake 7/21 (Ramsay Koury), and from along the Swatara Creek 7/24 (Gordan Dimmig); Mercer: 5 seen flying over Shenango Lake at the propagation area (listserv, Steve Sanford); Montgomery: at Green Lane Reservoir 7/3 and 7/15 (George Franchois), and Douglass Twp. 7/18 (Mary Ache); Philadelphia: seen regularly in northeast Philadelphia across the Delaware River from a New Jersey nest site.

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron – Dauphin: nesting colony, stretching for several blocks from Woodbine St. south to Hamilton St. and between Green St. and 2nd St. in Harrisburg (m.ob.); Cumberland: on 6/30 and 7/4 one adult was reported at the West Fairview boat ramp (Ramsay Koury); Jefferson: one 7/23 on the Clarion River continued through the season (Al Fleckenstein); Lancaster: at Alcoa Marsh 7/29 (Justin Bosler); Philadelphia: on the bank of Cobb’s Creek in West Philadelphia 6/29 (ph. Alex Zorach).

Glossy Ibis – Chester: 3 at retention pond in Parkesburg 7/12 (Becky Robinson fide Rick Robinson); Lancaster: Conewago Recreational Trail and wetlands 7/22-29 (eBird).

Mississippi Kite* – Bucks: flew over a Newtown yard 6/12 (Bob Shaffer, no doc) while the observer was mowing the lawn.

Northern Goshawk – Bradford: one observed 7/11 (eBird, Nate Fronk); Forest: 2 nests visited and 6 young banded by David Brinker in late May; Warren: nest with 3 young banded by Dave Brinker 6/15, and one seen in Heart’s Content 6/9 (eBird, Josh Lefever).

Merlin – Berks: first June records in Reading 6/2 (Katrina Knight) and one in Bernville 6/5 (Joan Silagy); Centre: 6/23 at German Settlement (SGL 100) grasslands (Dan Altif); Erie: one seen at Presque Isle Gull Point (eBird, Walter Wehtje) 6/8 and one flying over Waldemeer Park 7/8 (eBird, John Fedak); Lycoming: an adult female was found on the ground at Henry Short Park, Loyalsock Twp. within the

tennis courts 7/21 (ph. Bobbie Helper); McKean: breeding behavior observed 6/17-7/28 with at least one young in downtown Bradford (John Fedak); Somerset: seen sporadically near Somerset through period (Mike Lanzone, Jeff Payne).

King Rail* – Lebanon: first heard calling in the Lancaster portion of Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area during a nightjar survey 6/2 (Keith Lutz, Kevin Lutz, no doc), crossed over into Lebanon 6/4 (Randy C. Miller).

Common Gallinule – Adams: two 6/16 (Phil Keener), one 6/21 (Tim Becker) and again 7/7 (Phil Keener); Crawford: 10, including number of young chicks, at Geneva Marsh 7/14 and 2 adults with 7 young there 7/17 (Ron F. Leberman). Two were last reported at McMichael Road 7/22 (Shawn Collins); Lawrence: as many as 6 birds at New Beaver, Three Rivers gravel pond, and Wampum (m.ob.); Mercer: Pennsy Swamp 6/2 (Neil Troyer).

Sandhill Crane – Bradford: two adults and one chick were present in the cow pasture near Hollenback from mid-June until at least 6/25 (Randy Walker); Crawford: 6/17 at Pymatuning (Thomas Clare Nicolls), 2 there 6/24 (Shawn Collins) and one immature there 7/21 (Ronald F. Leberman); Lawrence: several eBird reports through the season in this traditional nesting areas; Somerset: a pair was present through the period at Buffalo Creek, but no young were noted, although coverage was considered spotty; Sullivan: adults and the family unit were observed, and 3 other adult nearby were not seen interacting.

Black-bellied Plover – Erie: various sightings from 6/2-6/16 with up to 3 on 6/8 at Presque Isle (eBird, m.ob.); Philadelphia: Pennypack on the Delaware 7/15 (Frank Windfelder).

Snowy Plover* – Erie: a second county record seen on 6/3-4 at Presque Isle State Park (Dave Wilton, Shannon Thompson, ph. Jerry McWilliams, doc submitted).

Piping Plover*– Erie: a banded adult made a brief appearance at Sunset Point 7/13 (ph. Mike Weible, doc submitted).

American Avocet – Adams: 2 first reported by a boater 7/27 at Long Pine Run Reservoir and confirmed later that day (Bill Oyler); Crawford: 3 at Tamarack Lake 7/31 (Shawn Collins); Indiana: 5 at Yellow Creek State Park 7/24 (Margaret Higbee, ph. Jeff McDonald); Lancaster: one 7/14 at Avocet Point (Eric Witmer, Mike Epler) and another “bright adult bird” 7/22 at the Conewago Rail Trail (eBird, Mike Epler).

Willet – Adams: along Red Rock Rd 7/3 (Peter Morgan); Erie: flock of 11 was an unexpected find at Gull Point 7/13 (Mark Vass, Shannon Thompson).

Whimbrel – Crawford: located at Tamarack Lake 7/15 (Shawn Collins) and another there 7/22 (Ron F. Leberman).

Ruddy Turnstone – Erie: adult in breeding plumage at Presque Isle Gull Point 6/1 (Geoff Malosh) and one 7/27 at Presque Isle Beach 11 (eBird, Ron Gutberlet); Mercer: 2 breeding plumage birds at Shenango Reservoir, Golden Run 7/26 (eBird, Shannon Thompson).

Red Knot – Erie: 2 passed Gull Point on 6/1 during a storm (Geoff Malosh); Somerset: 2 breeding plumage birds 6/2 at Lake Somerset (eBird, Mike Lanzone).

Sanderling – Crawford: one at Tamarack Lake 7/15 and 3 there 7/22 (Shawn Collins); Dauphin: one 7/31 off the southwestern tip of Three Mile Island on the York Haven dam (Gordon Dimmig); Erie: up to 5 were at Presque Isle at start of season, 6/2 (Shannon Thompson), and up to 8 beginning 7/15 (eBird); Lycoming: 5 at the Williamsport Dam 7/20 (Nate Fronk); Mercer: one 7/22 at Shenango Res. (eBird, Mark Vass); Philadelphia: 2 at Pennypack on the Delaware 7/15 (Frank Windfelder); Somerset: one 7/27 at Somerset Lake (Alan Peterson, Jeff Payne).

Western Sandpiper – Philadelphia: up to 5 at John Heinz NWR at Tinicum from 7/20 through season (Todd


Fellenbaum, m.ob.). White-rumped Sandpiper – Crawford; Cumberland; Erie;

Lancaster; Lawrence; McKean; Philadelphia; Somerset. Baird’s Sandpiper – Centre: one 7/20 at Bald Eagle S.P. (Alex

Lamoreaux, Anna Fasoli); Crawford: 7/17 on the Pymatuning Causeway (Ronald F. Leberman); McKean: after severe weather, one 7/27 at Bradford sewage treatment ponds (John Fedak); Somerset: one videoed on 6/12 at Somerset Lake (Mike Lanzone).

Dunlin – Erie: on several occasions, up to 12 from 6/2-6/8 at Presque Isle (m.ob.); Lancaster: At Rte. 999/441 sand bar 6/4 (eBird, Meredith Lombard); Somerset: one in breeding plumage at Lake Somerset 6/2 (eBird, Mike Lanzone).

Stilt Sandpiper – Lawrence: one at Black Swamp 7/26 (eBird, Shannon Thompson); McKean: one at Bradford Sewage Treatment pond 7/27 (John Fedak); Mercer: one at West River Rd. area at Shenango River Res. 7/27 (Geoff Malosh); Philadelphia: up to 28 at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum 7/19-31 (Doris McGovern).

Wilson’s Snipe – Allegheny: 2 at Imperial 7/22 (eBird, Ian Gardner); Lawrence: at Black Swamp 7/13 (eBird, Shannon Thompson).

Wilson’s Phalarope – Erie: a male made a rare June appearance 6/5 and likely a different male, based upon plumage differences, was seen 6/14 (Walter Wehtje).

Red-necked Phalarope – Lancaster: an adult male in fading breeding plumage at Avocet Point 7/29 (Eric Witmer, Tom Garner, Bruce Carl, Bob Schutsky).

Laughing Gull – Bucks: first summer bird at Peace Valley Park 6/2 was unexpected away from the Delaware River (ph. August Mirabella); Delaware: Marcus Hook 6/24 (eBird. Al Guarente); Erie: Gull Point 6/1-2 (ph. Geoff Malosh), another in a parking lot in downtown Erie 6/11 (Shawn Collins), and probably the same bird was seen again at Gull Point 6/15 (Walter Wehtje); Philadelphia: various sightings at John Heinz NWR at Tinicum in July (eBird).

Bonaparte’s Gull – Centre: 6/13 at Bald Eagle S.P. (Mike Dreibelbis); Crawford: 2 at Pymatuning Spillway 7/4 (Shawn Collins); Erie: at Presque Isle State Park 6/1 (eBird, Geoff Malosh) and 6/16 (eBird, Colleen Yeany); Lancaster: 2 birds in alternate plumage 6/25 at Conejohela Flats (eBird, Mike Epler, Pat and Dick Williams).

Lesser Black-backed Gull – Bucks: at Peace Valley Park starting 6/24 (August Mirabella) increased to 3 on 7/22 (Kurt Schwarz), and 3 at Morrisville Levee on 7/3 (Bill Keim); Delaware: 3 along Delaware River 7/20 (Al Guarente); Philadelphia: at Pennypack on the Delaware 7/22 (Frank Windfelder).

Common Tern – Erie: a nest with 2 eggs was found at Gull Point 7/9 (Jerry McWilliams), and a second nest was found containing 3 eggs failed during the fourth week of July (Jerry McWilliams).

Least Tern – Philadelphia: one at John Heinz N.W.R. at Tinicum 6/23 (Adrian Binns, Debbie Beer).

Black Tern – Venango: Kahle Lake 6/1 (Gary Edwards). Eurasian Collared-Dove – Berks: up to 6 at Shartlesville

colony (Matt Wlasniewski); Centre: up to 2 at S. Nixon Rd, State College area from 6/20 through season (m.ob.); Franklin: up to 2 at traditional location in Shady Grove from 6/8 through season (m.ob.); Lancaster: Slate Hill Road, Peach Bottom (Bob Schutsky); Lebanon: in the Fontana area through 7/22 (Tom Johnson, Michael Lanzone, Andrew Weber).

Monk Parakeet – Lehigh: up to 2 birds at a nest from before 6/8 (Dan Altif) through end of June when the nest was removed; Luzerne: pair of birds building a nest on a telephone pole on Old River Road behind Meyer’s Stadium, from 7/8 through at least 7/15, after which the nest was removed (Jeff Stratford, Jim Ridolfi, eBird).

Short-eared Owl – Clarion: unconfirmed report for Mount Airy of a single bird seen at dusk 6/15 (fide Carole Winslow); Lawrence: one on Baird Rd 6/17 (eBird, Mark Vass); Washington: an adult at Robinson Twp. from 6/12-14 where they traditionally winter in small numbers (Shannon Thompson, Geoff Malosh).

Northern Saw-whet Owl – Forest: 7/1 near Pigeon (John Fedak); Indiana: heard calling near Penn Run 6/21 (Betsy Fetterman, Margaret Higbee); McKean: various locations in late-June (John Fedak); Warren: fledlging roosting in a thicket 6/20 (eBird, Josh Lefever); Wyoming: heard during nocturnal survey 7/8 (eBird, Deuane Hoffman).

Chuck-will’s-widow* – Lebanon: heard mornings and evenings along Tomstown Road at Fort Indiantown Gap through 7/21 (m.ob., doc submitted).

Olive-sided Flycatcher – Centre: one during point counts 6/6 off Rte. 144 (Steve Brenner).

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher – Wyoming: at a traditional location (Doug Gross).

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher* – Erie: one immature bird at Gull Point 6/8 (ph. Mark Vass, ph. Jerry McWilliams, doc submitted).

Sedge Wren – Erie: 2 singing at the Fairview Business Park from 6/2 to at least 6/9 (Drew Mortensen, m.ob.).

Nashville Warbler – Huntingdon: one observed on a Rothrock State Forest BBS route believed to be a late migrant (Greg Grove); Lebanon: one singing in the Box Car Rocks area of Game Lands 211 on 6/8 (Tim Becker).

Prothonotary Warbler – Bucks: feeding young out of nest at Peace Valley Park 6/16, last seen 7/14 (Rick Wiltraut, Mike Line, Mike Homel), another above Riegelsville since late May was still singing 6/6 (Mike Homel, Mike Line) but not thereafter; Crawford: at nest box at McMichaels Road 6/10 and 6/16 (Shawn Collins, Alex Lamoreaux, Josh LeFever) and a male at Phelp’s Rd. 6/16 (Ron Leberman, Robert Leberman); Mercer: among nesting birds listed at SGL 130 (Neil Troyer); Montgomery: at Horsham Twp. Power Line Trail 6/24 (Diane Sembello); York: continuing at Brunner Island nest area through 7/8 (Ramsay Koury).

Wilson’s Warbler – Erie: at Presque Isle 6/3 (eBird, Josh Levever).

Summer Tanager* – Allegheny: male first reported in spring remained at Schenley Park up to 6/30, the same location a pair attempted to nest last year (Hiro Fukuda, Kate St. John, no doc), but a female was never found this year; Lebanon: a first-year male was identified 7/4 (Jonathan Heller) in Spring Hill Acres, and a female was observed near the same location along Aspen Lane 7/6 (Randy C. Miller), leading to discovery 7/7 of a nest containing at least 2 young (Tom Garner, m.ob., doc submitted).

Clay-colored sparrow – Clarion: at Mount Zion (Piney Tract), where they have been largely absent for the past 3 years (Anthony Bledsoe), no more than 6 at Curllsville (m.ob.), and for the first time at Mount Airy 6/8 and 6/16 (Carole Winslow); Erie: at Fairview Industrial Park 6/9 (eBird), but nesting could not be confirmed; Tioga: two close observations 6/2 (eBird, Steve Brenner) and 6/6 (eBird, Nate Fronk) at River Road reclamation strip mine.

White-crowned Sparrow – Erie: adult coming to a feeder 6/29 (fide Mark Vass).

Pine Siskin – Luzerne: in hemlocks at Rickett’s Glenn State Park – Hidden Hemlocks Trail 7/6 (eBird, Doug Gross); Lycoming: calling frequently 6/8 in SGL 75 (Nate Fronk); Somerset: single at the Payne’s feeders 7/28-29 (Alan Peterson, Jeff Payne); Tioga: flying over at Blossburg River Rd. 7/9 (eBird, Nate Fronk).


Photographic Highlights

Bar-headed Goose. This handsome bird turned up at a gravel pond in southern Lawrence for a few days in early June, here 3 June 2012. It was wary and spent its time closely associated with a flock of Canada Geese. Interestingly, a Bar-headed Goose (very likely the same bird) spent a few weeks in April at a pond about 50 miles to the south in northern Washington. (Geoff Malosh)

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea). Yellow-crowns have recently taken to nesting in a densely suburban neighborhood in Harrisburg, Dauphin, where they tolerate a tenuous, and sometimes comical, proximity to humans. This juvenile was photographed 28 July 2012 from inside a house as it perched atop a skylight, totally unaware of—or unconcerned with—the amused humans within. (Dot Montaine)

Snowy Egret (Egretta thula). This nice comparison shot of a snowy (below) with a Great Egret was made at Washington Boro, Lancaster 1 July 2012. (Meredith Lombard)

Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea). Rare in western Pennsylvania, this juvenile Little Blue (note the dark blue primary tips) spent several weeks at a small marsh near New Galilee, Lawrence, shown here 29 July 2012. (Geoff Malosh)

Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura). This nestling at an abandoned barn near Curllsville, Clarion provided an uncommonly convenient opportunity to study the nesting habits of the species in July. The bird is shown here 13 July 2012, a few weeks before it fledged. (Jeff McDonald)

Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularius). This fluffy fledgling was nicely photographed at Bald Knob, Allegheny 25 June 2012. (Jeff McDonald)


Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus). Piping Plover is rare enough at Presque Isle State Park, Erie, but it is rarer still away from Gull Point. This banded adult was photographed at Sunset Point 13 July 2012. (Mike Weible)

White-rumped Sandpiper (Calidris fuscicollis). The bright breeding plumage of this handsome adult White-rumped Sandpiper nonetheless appeared cryptic as the bird stood among a field of small multicolored pebbles at Gull Point, Erie 2 June 2012. (Jeff McDonald)

Shorebirds. Gull Point is nowadays a shadow of its former self, but spring storms still bring flocks of shorebirds and plenty of excitement to birders willing to undertake the long and difficult walk to the end. This flock of shorebirds, containing at least six species, was made at the Point during rainshowers 1 June 2012. (Geoff Malosh)

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus). Harbingers of an outstanding fall for shorebirds at Shenango Reservoir, Mercer, these two hendersoni adults were photographed on the flats there 29 July 2012. (Jeff McDonald)

Franklin’s Gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan). Quite unexpected was this adult Franklin’s Gull at Gull Point, Erie 1 June 2012, during the passage of a front. Interestingly, an adult Laughing Gull was seen at Gull Point periodically in the first half of June as well. (Geoff Malosh)

Barred Owl (Strix varia). Always confiding when they can be located, this fledgling Barred Owl was nicely photographed at Farrandsville, Clinton 30 June 2012. (Wayne Laubscher)


Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica). This juvenile at nest was photographed at a long-established nest site (in the attic of an outbuilding) near New Era, Bradford 31 July 2012, providing another convenient look at a hard-to-observe nester (see also the image of a young Turkey Vulture on p. 153). (Trudy Gerlach)

Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus). Quite unexpected was this scissor-tail at Gull Point, Erie 8 June 2012, which provided just the second record for Erie. The bird was present for only one day. (Jerry McWilliams)

Sedge Wren (Cistothorus platensis). Yet another unexpected bird in Erie this season was this wren using an unmown field at the Fairview Business Park in early June, shown here the day it was first found, 2 June 2012. (Drew Mortensen)

Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera). Ever more difficult to find in the commonwealth, each encounter with a golden-wing these days is something to be appreciated. This male was at Bald Eagle State Park, Centre 16 June 2012. (Wayne Laubscher)

Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea). Very difficult to photograph at eye level, this sharp portrait was made at Hyner, Clinton 19 July 2012. (Wayne Laubscher)

Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens). Unusual in Centre, this male chat was nicely captured at Bald Eagle State Park 13 June 2012. (Alex Lamoreaux)


Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea). A characteristic bird of Penn’s Woods, the Scarlet Tanager nonetheless can be difficult to photograph on territory here. This worthy image was made at Sproul State Forest, Clinton 6 June 2012. (Wayne Laubscher)

Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea). Always a highlight of a day birding in the southeast of Pennsylvania, this handsome male was photographed at Martins Creek, Northampton 27 June 2012. (Dustin Welch)

Dickcissel (Spiza americana). Grasslands in an Amish area of southern Mercer along Garrett Road were a hotbed of Dickcissel activity in June and early July. At least four birds were present, including this male, shown here 3 June 2012. (Geoff Malosh)

Dickcissel (Spiza americana). Dickcissels appeared in all corners of the state this season. This female was present at Palm, Montgomery 15 July 2012. (Dustin Welch)

Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis). Another fixture along Garrett Road in Mercer alongside the Dickcissels was Savannah Sparrow. This gorgeous portrait was made there 2 June 2012. (Jeff McDonald)


Local Notes – June to July 2012

ABBREVIATIONS B.B.S. Breeding Bird Survey C.A. Conservation Area C.B.C. Christmas Bird Count C.P. County Park Cr. Creek et al. and others Ft. Fort G.C. Golf Course G.P. Game Preserve Hwy. Highway imm(s). immature(s) Jct. Junction juv(s). juvenal [plumage]; juvenile(s) L. Lake

max maximum min minimum m. ob. many observers Mt. (Mts.) Mount/Mountain/Mountains N.A. Nature Area or Natural Area N.F. National Forest N.M. National Monument N.P. National Park N.W.R. National Wildlife Refuge PAMC Pennsylvania Migration Count ph. Photographed Pt. Point R. River R.A. Recreational Area

R.B.A. Rare Bird Alert Res. Reservoir Rte. Route S.F. State Forest SGL State Game Land S.P. State Park S.T.P. Sewage Treatment Plant subad(s). subadult(s) Twp. Township vr. voice recording vt. videotape W.A. Wildlife Area W.M.A. Wildlife Management Area WRS Winter Raptor Survey

Adams County Locations: Breeding Bird Survey Rte 193 (BBS), East Berlin (EB), Gettysburg National Military Park (GNMP), Long Pine Run Reservoir (LPRR), Michaux State Forest (MICH), SGL #249 (SGL).

This report relies heavily on eBird data and a 6/3 BBS by AW. Despite limited reporting, some good birds were found and the species count for the period was 100.

A single Ring-necked Pheasant was at SGL 7/12 (DJG). Wild Turkeys were at LPRR with four 7/5 (NM) and one at MICH 6/5 and 6/16 (RTSG). A sub-adult Common Loon was at LPRR 6/5 (RTSG) and the bird apparently remained throughout the period. Bald Eagle was seen over EB 6/2 and 7/28 (PK). Unusual for the period was a juvenile Northern Harrier found in the fields along Pumping Station Rd 6/24, found during Hawk Mountain’s Farmland Raptor Project.

SGL along Gun Club Rd held Common Gallinule again this year, with two 6/16 (PK), one 6/21 (TB), and one 7/7 (PK). Breeding evidence was not detected. An added bonus of the 6/16 visit was a single American Coot. A grand total of three shorebirds species, but two of them were rare for the county. A pair of American Avocets was first reported by a boater at LPRR 7/27, and were confirmed later that day (BO). A Willet was found along Red

Rock Rd 7/3 (PM) and the description provided suggested a bird in non-breeding plumage. An American Woodcock was at GNMP 6/14 (AW).

Although Black-billed Cuckoo went unreported, there were two reports of Yellow-billed Cuckoo: one on the 6/3 BBS and one at LPRR 7/5 (NM). Successful nesting by Barn Owls was noted along Marsh Creek (PB). Eastern Screech-Owl was at Friend’s Creek 7/28-30 (JH). There were some nice numbers of Acadian and Willow Flycatchers reported; Acadians included 4 at LPRR 7/5 (NM), 4 at GNMP 6/14 (AW), and 3 at MICH 6/13 (EH), and Willows included 10 on the 6/3 BBS and 8 at GNMP 6/18 (AW). There were three reports of White-eyed Vireo with a high of four at GNMP 6/15 (AW). Yellow-throated Vireo was found at GNMP 6/14-18 (AW), including an impressive count of 5 on 6/14. Common Ravens continue to become more “common” with reports from Cunningham Rd and GNMP, in addition to the expected location at MICH. Four Horned Larks were found on the 6/3 BBS. Adams holds a number of Purple Martin colonies; the high count of 29 came from the Gettysburg College campus 7/20 (AW).

A trip to SGL 7/22 provided a good opportunity to observe the influence of diet on the tail tip coloration of juvenile Cedar Waxwings (DJG). A number of juvenile birds had distinctly red tips in contrast to the normal yellow. Cornell’s Birds of North America indicates that orange tail pigmentation in adults results from a diet of Morrow’s (lonicera morrowii) and


other exotic (and invasive) honeysuckles; however, there is no mention of observed red tail coloration.

Warblers were lackluster with only nine species reported. The more noteworthy reports were 3 Prairie Warblers at GNMP 6/18 (AW) and 12 Ovenbird at MICH 6/15 (EH). Scarlet Tanager numbers were impressive. Eight at MICH 6/15 (EH), 5 at LPRR 7/5 (NM), and 10 at GNMP 6/14 (AW) suggest a strong breeding season for this species in Adams.

Sparrows highlights included three reports of Savannah Sparrow, with a high of 4 at GNMP 6/7 (AW) and fairly widespread reporting (from nine locations) of Grasshopper Sparrow. Last year was a good season good for Blue Grosbeak and Dickcissel, but neither species was reported this year. However, it appears that little birding was done in the areas that held these species in 2011. There were four reports of Bobolink from Cunningham Rd and GNMP. Eastern Meadowlarks showed impressively, found in 13 locations with high counts of 13 from GNMP 6/18 (AW) and 32 in the fields of Pickett’s Charge at GNMP 6/7 (AW). Another species that showed well was Orchard Oriole. Reports were made from seven locations with a high count of 4 at SGL 7/7 (PK). Observers: Phil Keener, 198 Jacobs Street, East Berlin, PA 17316, (717) 259-9984, [email protected], Tim Becker, Pete Bugler, Ron –Tracy Snyder- George (RTSG), Don & Jennifer Gilbert (DJG), Elaine Hendricks, Judie Hogan, Nancy Magnusson, Peter Morgan, Bill Oyler, Andy Wilson. Allegheny County Locations: Boyce-Mayview Park (BMP), Imperial (IMP).

Following a warmer than normal spring, summer came with a vengeance. The last half of June was more like August, with record high temperatures and little precipitation. July’s temperatures soared to near 100 degrees with very little precipitation. Thunderstorms brought some relief the third week of July.

Wood Ducks were certainly successful breeders at BMP. Six adults and 20 ducklings were tallied 6/1 (FK). A Bufflehead lingered at North Park into the summer season and was last reported 6/17 (TA). The injured Common Merganser previously reported continues to live on the Monongahela R. at Duck Hollow (TM, NM, et al.). A Great Egret was at IMP 7/20 (MV). There was quite a bit of Osprey activity this summer. The pair along the Ohio R. in Leetsdale was at the nest on an electrical tower through June, but by 7/5 it appeared they had failed in their breeding attempt (MV). Better news came from a few miles upriver at the Neville Island nest where 3 young were observed 7/12 (PB). A Bald Eagle flew over Oakland 6/6 surprising those observing the local nesting Peregrine Falcons (KSJ). One was seen flying over Harrison Hills Park 6/14 (PH, JS, SS). A Red-shouldered Hawk was a welcome sight at Harrison Hills Park 6/14 (PH, JS, SS) where they were previously very reliable. The white Red-tailed Hawk reported in spring was seen again on the North Side of Pittsburgh 6/28 (OM). A real surprise, a Sora was observed at IMP with two downy young 7/21 (MD). This is the first confirmed breeding at IMP and the second in Allegheny. The pond is only a few years old and was constructed at the entrance to a new industrial park. Cattails are beginning to grow in clumps, but the vegetation is still rather sparse, yet the birds apparently found it satisfactory for nesting.

The first southbound shorebirds began to appear by the end of July. Killdeer gathered into a flock of 63 at Hampton Community Park 7/23 (DN). A Greater Yellowlegs was at IMP 7/23 (GM); 4 Lesser Yellowlegs were there 7/20 (GM). Two Solitary Sandpipers were at BMP 7/1 which was rather early; one was at IMP 7/13 (GM). Three straggling northbound Semipalmated Sandpipers were at IMP 6/2 (GM). The first Least Sandpiper was at BMP 7/3 (FK); two were at IMP 7/5 (MV). A Pectoral Sandpiper was at IMP 7/4 (MV) and 3 were there 7/20 (GM). Two Wilson’s Snipe at IMP were entered into eBird 7/22 (IG).

Herring Gulls continue to nest on the Highland Park Bridge over the Allegheny R. A total of 87 adults and 17 juveniles were tallied 6/23 (MV). One chick was observed at Dashields Dam on the Ohio R. 6/7 (MV); another nesting site. Two late Common Terns were flying around Lock and Dam #4 on the Allegheny R. in Natrona Heights 6/7 (BC).

A large number of Mourning Doves gathered at Duck Hollow 7/25 (TM, NM); the tally was 59. The breeding Barred Owls at BMP reported last season continued to mid-June (FK). One was seen at North Park 7/23 (DN) and one was calling in Schenley Park 7/27 (KSJ). One visited a yard in Mount Lebanon in June (DR). This is the most reports I’ve ever received for this species. Small numbers of Common Nighthawks were reported throughout July in various locations (m.ob.).

There were two reports of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the county; a rare bird here. The first visited a feeder in Upper St. Clair off and on for three

weeks and was last seen 6/15 (RS). Another report came from the same general area and may have been the same bird. It also visited a feeder and was first seen 6/4 and continued through July (fide FK, DW, ST). The bird was photographed.

Willow Flycatchers were reported at IMP the entire season (ST, GM). Great Crested Flycatchers are not reported regularly. One was in Pine Twp. 6/7 (PL, SL) and 3 were at Knob Hill Park 7/20 (KD). A Common Raven was seen near the Pittsburgh International Airport 6/2 (GM). Two were seen flying over East Liberty 6/18 (JS, MVV). One was reported at IMP 7/4 and 7/20 (MV) and one was at Duck Hollow 7/21 (TM, NM). Cliff Swallows are not common in the county at any time. One at IMP 7/20 (MV) was unexpected. Surprising was the confirmation of at least one nest at North Park in July (DN). Cliff Swallows were confirmed in the Pittsburgh area during the first atlas, but as far as I’m aware, not during the second. A Brown Creeper was discovered near Settler’s Cabin Park at the future Pittsburgh Botanic Garden site 6/15 (BMu). This is an unusual species here during the summer. The two nesting pairs of Eastern Bluebirds in the city limits noted in the spring were both successful as both nests contained young 6/19 (BMi, DY).

A Northern Parula was at Frick Park 6/3 (JS). The bird may have been a late migrant because this species is not known to breed in the park. A pair was observed nesting at BMP 6/26 (FK); a rare breeding record for Allegheny. The last Yellow Warblers reported were two at Frick Park 7/27 (MF). A surprising find was a Northern Waterthrush at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel 6/20 (BSh). The bird was foraging along the shore of a small pond. Black-and-white Warblers were at Harrison Hills Park 6/10 (AH, PM) and 6/14 (PH, JS, SS), one of the few breeding sites in the county. Other local breeders included Worm-eating Warbler at Harrison Hills Park 6/2 and 6/10 (AH, PM) and up to 4 Ovenbirds at Knob Hill Park (KD). A Kentucky Warbler was found at Harrison Hills Park 6/2 (AH, PM) and 6/14 (PH, JS, SS). There was only one report of Yellow-breasted Chat at IMP 6/12 (ST).

A few Vesper, Grasshopper and Savannah Sparrows were reported at IMP in June (m.ob.). A nice count of 15 Grasshopper Sparrows and 4 Henslow’s Sparrows was made at IMP 6/15 (ST). The male Summer Tanager first reported in spring remained at Schenley Park up to 6/30 (HF, KSJ, et. al.). A female was never found. This is the same location a pair attempted to nest last year. A Dickcissel was found at IMP 6/12 (ST); the lone report. A female Bobolink was at BMP 6/27 (FK). The field where the bird was seen was mowed and the bird was not relocated.

Purple Finch was confirmed breeding in Pine Twp. in June (PL, SL). The first year male reported in May continued in Penn Hills at least to mid-June (MF). Observers: Mike Fialkovich, 805 Beulah Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235, (412) 731-3581, [email protected]; Tim Andrle, Paul Brown, Ben Coulter, Michael David, Karyn Delaney, Cory DeStein, Hiro Fukuda, Ian Gardner, Amy Henrici, Joyce Hoffmann, Jay Kadane, Fred Kachmarik, Pat Lynch, Sherron Lynch, Pat McShea, Geoff Malosh, Oscar Miller, Ben Milleville (BMi), Nancy Moeller, Tom Moeller, Bob Mulvihill (BMu), Dick Nugent, Dick Ridgeway, Kate St. John (KSJ), Rosemary Salerni, Brian Shema (BSh), Jack Solomon, Sue Solomon, Shannon Thompson, Mark VanderVen (MVV), Mark Vass, Dave Wilton. Armstrong County Locations: Crooked Creek Park (CC), Elders Ridge (ER), Kittanning (KT), Margaret (MG).

Ten Wood Ducks were noted along the Armstrong Trail 7/22 (TR). The KT Riverfront Park yielded 12 Mallards 7/2 (TR). Five Common Mergansers were spotted along the Butler-Freeport Trail 7/3 (TR).

Two Yellow-billed Cuckoos were found both on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH) and along the Armstrong Trail 7/22 (TR). Single Black-billed Cuckoos were listed on the MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH) and at Chicora 7/29 (DM). An Eastern Screech-Owl near SGL 247 on 7/28 (TR) was the only one reported.

Two White-eyed Vireos near ER 6/30 (MH, RH) and a singleton at SGL 247 on 7/1 (TR) were the only ones noted; this species has become increasingly difficult to find. Yellow-throated Vireos noted included one on the MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH), 2 on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH), one at ER 6/30 (MH, RH), one at CC 7/4 (MVT), and 3 on the Lenape Golf Course 7/10 (RH). Warbling Vireos were listed only on the MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH) and near CC 7/24 (MVT). A Veery was singing on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH), and another was found at SGL 247 on 7/1 (TR).

Ovenbird tallies included 11 on the MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH) and 12 on the KT BBS the next day (MH, RH). One Blue-winged Warbler was found


6/2 (MH, RH) on the MG BBS and 2 were listed near CC 6/20 (MVT). The MG BBS yielded one Black-and-white Warbler 6/2 (MH, RH) while 2 were also found near CC 7/24 (MVT). Both the MG and KT BBS routes yielded 6 Hooded Warblers while the respective counts of American Redstart on these routes were 6 and 5. Yellow-breasted Chats included single birds on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH), near ER 6/30 (MH, RH), and at CC 6/27 (MVT).

Single Savannah Sparrows were found on the MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH), on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH), near ER 6/30 (MH, RH), and near CC 7/18 (MVT). A Grasshopper Sparrow 6/2 (MH, RH) on the MG BBS was the lone report. Two Bobolinks were noted both on the KT BBS 6/3 (MH, RH) and above the Armstrong Trail 6/10 (KSJ). The MG BBS 6/2 (MH, RH) produced nice counts of 4 Orchard and 17 Baltimore Orioles. Observers: Margaret Higbee, 3119 Creekside Road, Indiana, PA 15701-7934, [email protected], Roger Higbee, David McCartt, Theo Rickert, Kate St. John (KSJ), Marge Van Tassel. Beaver County Locations: Brady’s Run Park (BRP), Independence Marsh (IND), Raccoon Creek State Park (RCSP).

Wood Ducks were a fixture at IND in Jul as numbers of females and juveniles built throughout the month (GM, MV). The total of 150 Mallards at New Brighton 7/22 (TJ) was notable for mid-summer. A late Ruddy Duck lingered at Rochester to at least 6/5 (MV). Turkey Vultures took to roosting on an electrical tower in East Rochester this season and into the fall; up to 27 were counted there 7/22 (MV) and later. Osprey nests in Midland (2 adults, one juv) and Aliquippa (one adult, 2 juvs) were active in Jul (MV), and the long-standing Potter Twp. nest was successful again this season (GM). An adult Bald Eagle was spotted at the Zelienople Airport 6/2 (DK). Broad-winged Hawk was noted at BRP 7/8 (TJ). Four fledglings were out of the Peregrine Falcon nest in Monaca by 6/3 (SG).

Dry conditions brought shorebird habitat to IND early this year, but nothing noteworthy was reported by season’s end. First Solitary Sandpipers were found there 7/15 (MV), and numbers quickly swelled to 19 on 7/26 (GM) and 25 on 7/27 (MV). The first Least Sandpiper appeared 7/1 (MV). Mid-summer Herring Gulls were at New Brighton 6/1, Monaca 6/16, and at Montgomery Dam 7/15 (all MV). A Common Nighthawk was heard in Beaver 6/10 during the Beaver/Lawrence BBS survey (GM) and one was reported at Beaver Falls 6/16 (TJ).

Willow Flycatcher probably bred again at IND and Big Beaver Wetlands (GM). Yellow-throated Vireos were near BRP 6/10 on the BBS survey (GM) and were still singing at IND and RCSP 7/8 (GM). A morning spent on the west side of RCSP 7/8 (GM) yielded some nice counts of breeding species, including 14 Red-eyed Vireos, 4 Carolina Wrens, 12 Gray Catbirds, 9 Hooded Warblers, and 7 Scarlet Tanagers. Also of note that day were 2 singing Black-throated Green Warblers but conclusive evidence of breeding was still not obtained. Black-throated Green Warblers have been summering at RCSP for several years in a row now. Notable for their lower numbers on this 7/8 outing were just 2 Ovenbird, one Cerulean Warbler, and one Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Other notable sightings among passerines included 2 Kentucky Warblers at BRP 6/17-7/8 (TJ), 3 Cerulean Warblers at RCSP 7/1 (TJ), 8 Scarlet Tanagers at BRP 7/8 (TJ), and a nice count of 15 Eastern Towhees at BRP 7/8 (TJ). Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were also noted at Economy Borough in late Jul (KD) and a few were heard along the BBS route in northern Beaver 6/10 (GM). Observers: Geoff Malosh, 450 Amherst Avenue, Moon Township, PA 15108-2654, (412) 735-3128, [email protected], Karyn Delaney, Scott Gregg, Timothy Johnson, Deb Kalbfleisch, Mark Vass. Bedford County No report. Compiler: Tom Dick, 123 Hummer Lane, Cairnbrook, PA, 15924, (814) 754-5727, [email protected]. Berks County Locations: Blue Marsh L. (BML), Hawk Mt. Sanctuary (HMS), French Creek SP (FCSP), Lake Ontelaunee (LO).

Up to 19 Mute Swans, including a brood of three cygnets, were at LO this period (RK). A Green-winged Teal drake with an injured wing was still

at LO 6/3 (MS). A female Common Merganser with seven ducklings was at BML 7/19 (JS) and 12 were below the Kernsville Dam on the Schuylkill R. 7/5 (SS). The annual contingent of non-breeding Double-crested Cormorants summering at LO numbered about 6 (RK). Several pairs of Green Herons nested around BML and LO, with fledglings seen later in summer. The Black-crowned Night-Heron colony formerly centered on Wellington Blvd., Wyomissing Hills, has dispersed through nearby suburban neighborhoods. With help from interested media people (JH, BU), I was able to document at least a few of the small, scattered nesting sites, mostly in conifers in yards, but an accurate count of young was not possible. Residents reported groups of five to 14 birds flying out to foraging areas at evening. When fledglings began to disperse, sightings increased to 16 at BML 7/2 (SW). All breeding information about this state endangered species has been sent to PGC.

Traditional nest sites in FCSP fledged two each of Black Vultures and Turkey Vultures (RB). Non-breeding Ospreys were at BML 6/25 (SW) and 7/30 (PM), and two were seen carrying fish along the Schuylkill R. above Shoemakersville 7/5 (SS). Young Bald Eagles were seen near Auburn 7/5 (SS) and at LO 7/22 (MS). A male Northern Harrier seen in farmland west of Hamburg 6/3 (ebird) was unusual but not unprecedented in June. Two Red-shouldered Hawks (SW) seen at BML 7/19 were at a new summer location for the species, while birds at Green Hills L. 6/16 (KL) and Hay Creek 6/22 (JT) were at more traditional locations. At least six families of American Kestrels with fledged young were seen in farmland in July (KG, RK), no doubt a fraction of the breeding pairs present in the county. Berks’ first reported June Merlins were a bird in Reading 6/2 (KK) and one in Bernville 6/5 (JS). Reading's Peregrine Falcon family was seen all summer, but it is not known if all three young were present (BU). Another Peregrine pair that nested in a quarry lost their three nestlings; Great Horned Owl predation was suspected (AM).

A stub-tailed juv. Spotted Sandpiper was at Gotwals pond, Oley 7/20-21 (RK). An American Woodcock at SGL 110, Northkill Gap 7/22 (KG) was in an area where breeding was finally confirmed this spring. Various small ponds attracted small numbers of southbound shorebirds, including Lesser Yellowlegs, and Solitary, Semipalmated, Least and Pectoral sandpipers, most of them seen in the latter half of July (m. ob.).

BML again hosted a few non-breeding Ring-billed Gulls this summer (JS). A Common Tern was at BML 6/16 and 7/17 (SW). The recently discovered Eurasian Collared-Dove colony in Shartlesville numbers about six birds (MW). Copulation or attempted copulation has often been seen, but so far no birder has seen a nest or young. Two adult and three nestling Barn Owls were banded near Barto 7/17 by PGC. Four young were banded in a box on a church in Stouchsburg in July (fide PM). Long established boxes in Rehrersburg and near Daniel Boone Homestead fledged five young each (RB). Two Eastern Whip-poor-wills were heard at SGL 110, Northkill Gap 5/30 and one on 7/9 (KG), the first summer record in years. Two robust Red-headed Woodpecker colonies were reported. In Marion Twp, 10 adults, some of which appeared to be tending three nest cavities, were found 6/14 and later (RK). The long known colony on Bastian Rd. near Bowers had five adults and one juv. 7/14 (SF).

The healthy, mature deciduous forest at Monocacy Hill produced 16 Eastern Wood-Pewees on a three-mile walk 7/7 (RK). Good edge habitat at Daniel Boone Homestead accounts for the high concentration of 11 singing male Willow Flycatchers heard there 6/17 (RK). Blue-headed Vireos were found at four places on the Kittatinny Ridge (KG), the southeastern edge of their range in Pennsylvania. A pair of Common Ravens was seen courting on Neversink Mt., Reading in spring, four birds were seen together there in summer, and possible juv. begging calls were recorded (JD), documenting another probable nesting in Berks by this expanding species. Horned Larks, not as well documented as during the recent atlas, were nevertheless found at several places in open farmland this summer (KG, RK). Purple Martin colonies on farms from Fleetwood to Topton were full and busy in June and July, as were the big Cliff Swallow colonies on bridges at LO, BML, and Hamburg (RK). A post-breeding flock of 350 adult and many juv. Tree Swallows was foraging low over alfalfa near Bowers in the rain 7/8 (RK). A Red-breasted Nuthatch in District Twp. 7/5 (RK), two at HMS feeders 7/6 (PA) and one at SGL 110, Rt. 183 7/11 (KG) were probably forerunners of a bigger fall flight this year.

Wood Thrush density in the Monocacy Hill forest is breathtaking and difficult to quantify, but 75 singing and non-singing birds were counted there on a three-mile walk 6/30 (RK). On the same walk 6/21, 43 Ovenbirds were heard (RK). Five Worm-eating Warblers along the Bartram Trail near Hamburg 6/20 (KG) and eight at Hay Creek 7/1 (HH) were healthy counts. The combination of hayfield and scrub at SGL 106, Pine Swamp Rd. is ideal Blue-winged Warbler habitat and six singing males plus fledged young were seen there 6/3 (LS). Kentucky Warbler, ever scarce and spotty, was at Hamburg Reservoir 5/31 (KG) and two were singing along the Bartram Trail near Hamburg 6/20 (KG). Hooded Warbler remains fairly common at


FCSP (RK). The only reported Cerulean Warbler was along the Schuylkill R. at Hamburg 6/18, 20 (KG). A few territories of Black-throated Blue Warbler and of Black-throated Green Warbler were found on the Kittatinny Ridge at the southeastern edge of their Pennsylvania range (KG). An adult Dark-eyed Junco at BML 5/29 (JS) was a late migrant.

More birding time spent in farm hayfield habitat produced more than the usual low number of underreported grassland breeders, especially in northern Berks, thanks to KG. Adults, often with fledged young, of Vesper, Savannah and Grasshopper sparrows were found, usually at several places (KG, RK). Small colonies of Bobolinks and Eastern Meadowlarks in the same habitat may have had time to bring off broods before mowing commenced, as they were consistently seen all summer. Blue Grosbeaks were found on the same farmland fieldtrips. A pair that returned to a territory near Oley was feeding young 6/30 into early July (RK). Singing males were found at three northern Berks sites in June and July (KG), and one was in a powerline cut near Antietam 6/23 (DW).

The highlight of the season was the large influx of Dickcissels into the state, perhaps fleeing mid-western drought. The first Dickcissel discovered in Berks was a singing male in a scrubby pasture on Monument Rd., Windsor Twp. 6/21 in an extensive matrix of grass hayfield habitat (KG). A few weeks later, a second male appeared at this site, followed by a female 6/21 (KG). The latter birds may have come from a nearby cut hayfield (read on). Two males were singing in a forb-invaded grass hayfield on the Adam farm on Virginville Rd. 7/5 (RK). This field was soon cut and the birds left (RK). These may have been the males found singing in a scruffy pasture at Haas and Leiby Rds. 7/7 (RF) until 7/12 (TK). A female was at this site 7/8 (RK), but no birds were found there 7/18 (RK). At the nearby Monument Rd. site, no Dickcissels were heard or seen after 7/22 (TC, KG). There was no conclusive evidence of nesting. The last Dickcissel reported this summer was a singing male a few miles away near Blue Rock Rd. 7/25 (JB). Birders looked for Dickcissels in other uncut hayfields and in CREP fields in July in northern and eastern Berks, but found none (KG, RK). This is the largest number of Dickcissels (three males, one female) ever recorded in one season in Berks. Though it is said to have been a common breeder in the 19th century, the first 20th century Berks Dickcissel was not recorded until 1936 (Earl Poole). Since then, most records have been of single birds in fall and winter, sometimes at intervals of many years. There are a few summer records of singing males holding territories for a few days to a month. Observers: Rudy Keller, 71 Lutz Rd., Boyertown, PA 19512, (610) 845-7310, [email protected], Paulette Ache, Rich Bonnett, Jim Brett, Tom Clauser, Jay Drasher, Catherine Elwell, Ryan Fick, Steve Fordyce, Kerry Grim, Holly Hartshorne, Jack Holcomb, Linda Ingram, Dean Kendall, Tim Kita, Katrina Knight, Ken Lebo, Art McMorris, Peter Montgomery, Sue Schmoyer, Joan Silagy, Lee Simpson, Matt Spence, Jaime Thomas, Bill Uhrich, Drew Weber, Stephen Werner, Matt Wlasniewski. Blair County Locations: Canoe Creek State Park (CCSP), Sandy Ridge Wind Farm (SRWF)

Although June started out on the cool side, by the end of the month temperatures were well above normal. The heat continued through most of July, particularly during the first half of the month, with the mercury climbing above average on 25 of 31 days. Information for this report were obtained from eBird with background and status information from Birds of Central Pennsylvania by Nick Bolgiano and Greg Grove, 2010 (B&G, 2010). Weather data are from AccuWeather <http://www.accuweather.com> and the Weather Channel <http://www.weather.com>.

An adult Green Heron was spotted 7/28 at a pond near Bald Eagle (NB). Two Red-shouldered Hawks were reported: one 6/30 at CCSP (IG) and one 7/22 at Altoona (JD). A few Belted Kingfishers, which are uncommon breeders in the region, were spotted, including one off Logging Rd. 31060 near the Juniata River 6/3 (JD), 2 at Plank Rd. pond 6/24 (MD), and 2 at CCSP 6/30 (IG).

Most flycatchers are uncommon breeders in the area, although Alder Flycatcher is an uncommon to rare breeder (B&G, 2010). During this season four Empidonax and one Myiarchus were present. Five Acadian Flycatchers were spotted 6/30 CCSP and 2 were noted the same day SGL 166 (all IG). JV found the only Alder Flycatcher 6/2 CCSP, and a Willow Flycatcher was found 6/22 in the front section SRWF (MD). A second Willow Flycatcher was heard singing at a pond near Bald Eagle 7/28 (NB). Single Least Flycatchers were present 6/3 Lower Trail (JD), 6/7 Chestnut Flats Wind Farm (MD), 6/22 front section SRWF (MD) and 7/8 Mt. Etna (JD). A solo Great Crested Flycatcher was spotted 6/30 one the Williamsburg Lower Trail (DW), and a second was heard 7/28 Ft.

Roberdeau County Park (NB). A Fish Crow was observed 7/8 Mt. Etna (JD). Two uncommon

Common Ravens were noted, one 6/3 off Logging Rd. 31060 (JD) and one 7/8 SRWF front section (MD). Several swallows are uncommon breeders in this region; four were observed this season. Nine Northern Rough-winged Swallows were spotted 6/30 Beaver Dam Rd. (IG), and 10 Purple Martins were at 7/6 Tyrone 7/6 (MD). Bank Swallows and Cliff Swallows were reported 6/3 off Johnson Hill Rd (JD). Thrushes were represented this season by an uncommon Veery 7/6 at Tipton Mountain Rd. (MY).

A dozen warbler species were observed during the summer. Of these Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, and Black-throated Green Warbler are common to abundant. The other seven are uncommon breeders. A single Worm-eating Warbler was observed 7/8 Mt. Etna and a Louisiana Warbler was seen 6/3 Lower Trail (both JD). IG reported 2 Black-and-white Warblers 6/30 SGL 166 (IG); two more were found 7/8 Mt. Etna (JD). Two Cerulean Warblers were spotted 6/30 Williamsburg Lower Trail (DW). Three Northern Parula were noted 6/3 Lower Trail and at least one was spotted 7/6 Tipton Mountain Rd. (both JD). A Blackburnian Warbler was reported 6/30 SGL 166 (IG), and a Black-throated Blue Warbler was seen 6/22 at the front section SRWF (MD). Four Eastern Meadowlarks were noted 6/30 (IG), and Orchard Oriole was at CCSP 7/8 (JD). Observers: N.J. Butkovich, 550 TOF Ave. #248, State College, PA 16803, (814) 234-6086, [email protected], Michael David, Jim Dunn, Ian Gardner, James Valimont, Doug Wentzel, Matthew Yarnell. Bradford County Locations: Deep Hollow Rd (DHR), East Smithfield (ESM), Susquehanna River (SUR), Trudy Gerlach farm near New Era (TNE), Wyalusing vicinity (WYA).

A large raft of 72 Common Mergansers was on the SUR at Echo Beach Rd. 7/9 (DNa, KN).Two Double-crested Cormorants were observed at Windfall on 6/3, possible breeders because of the date (SF). A number of Great Egrets were seen in the county in July: one 7/18 on the SUR at the Ulster bridge (DA, NA); one on 7/25 at Bonin Lake, Orwell (TS); and one 7/31 on an island in the SUR off Sugar Run (TG). There were numerous sightings of up to 5 adult and juvenile Green Herons in July starting 7/20 at TNE (TG).

Two Ospreys were observed 6/16 on the SUR at Homet’s Ferry, possible breeders (DB). There were multiple sightings of 2 Bald Eagles at Ridgebury Lake this summer (BB, LB), one was seen 6/10 on the SUR near Wyalusing, carrying a fish (RM, BF), and a new nest was reported from the Ulster area with one chick as of 6/18 (DA). A Red-shouldered Hawk was reported 7/10 on Falls Creek Rd., Barclay Mt. (NF). A Broad-winged Hawk was seen 7/2 on Travis Hill Rd, one was at TNE 7/18, one was calling and flying at the intersection of Travis Hill and Iron Bridge Rds 7/22; and one was at Travis Hill Rd 7/31 (TG).

Two adult Sandhill Cranes and one chick were present at a cow pasture near Hollenback from mid-June until at least 6/25 (RW). Two young Chimney Swifts were clinging to an attic wall near their nest 7/29 at TNE (TG). An Acadian Flycatcher sang near a house at TNE on 6/8-10, a probable breeder (TG), and on 6/17, one was singing along Satterlee Run, Kellogg Mt (RY, TG). A Willow Flycatcher was at WYA 6/10 (RM, BF), and 2 were at Taylor Marsh, south of Canton, 6/27 (LF). A Yellow-throated Vireo was observed 7/6 at Goose Hollow Rd. (DNi). There was a Horned Lark 6/18 on Locust Rd near ESM (NF). A Cliff Swallow was present 6/27 in the ESM vicinity (DW). The only Red-breasted Nuthatch seen this season was 7/11 at DHR (NF). A Northern Mockingbird was at WYA 6/10 (RM, BF).

During a National Aviary study of Louisiana Waterthrushes and water quality 6/1, a pair and 4 chicks were observed near Hollenback (DM, MP, AT, AB). On 7/14 a Black-and-White Warbler was in the Lake Nephawin vicinity (LF).A Hooded Warbler was seen 6/27 in the ESM vicinity (DW). On 6/23 a nest with nestlings of American Redstarts was found at Woodside (RT, AB). Two Magnolia Warblers were countersinging near Moxie 6/3 (TG), and 2 were at DHR 7/11 (NF). A Blackburnian Warbler was seen 7/11 at DHR (NF). On 7/10 a Black-throated Blue Warbler was on Schrader Rd (NF). A few Pine Warblers were feeding at elderberries 7/9-10 on Peck Hill (AV, GV). On 6/27 a Prairie Warbler was at the ESM vicinity (DW).

A single Grasshopper Sparrow was seen 6/27 in the ESM vicinity (DW). A Henslow’s Sparrow, a probable breeder, was singing at night in a large hayfield on 7/10 and 7/19 at TNE (TG). Also a probable breeder, which is quite unusual for this location, a White-throated Sparrow sang on 6/7


and 6/12 at the same location at TNE (TG). A delightful find was a Dark-eyed Junco nest with four eggs in moss along Satterlee Run, Kellogg Mt 6/17 (RY, TG). On 6/2 a Bobolink nest with 6 nestlings was found in a large hayfield, along with 3 female and 5 male adults, at TNE (DM, MP). An Orchard Oriole was near ESM 6/27 (DW). Observers: Trudy Gerlach, 6907 Wyalusing New Albany Rd., Wyalusing, PA 18853, (570) 746-9270, [email protected], Dick Allyn, Nan Allyn, Alex Beloker (ABe), Bruce Boselli, Lee Boselli, Anna Branduzzi (ABr), David Buck, Sharon Ferguson, Bob Fowles, Lewis Frederick, Nate Fronk, Trudy Gerlach, Liz Hart, Bill Howe, Robert Megraw, Danilo Mejia, Charlene Miller, George Miller, Dan Natt (DNa), Karen Natt, David Nicosia (DNi), Maria Paulino, Terry Szlucha, Andrea Thoman, Ruth Tonachel, Anne Vivino-Hintze, George Vivino-Hintze, Randy Walker, Drew Weber, Ellen Whipple, Ron Young. Bucks County Locations: Churchville Park (CVP), Core Creek Park (CCP), Delaware River (Del. R.), Maple Knoll Farms at Buckingham Twp. (MKF), Peace Valley Park (PVP), The Penn Warner Tract (PWT), Rohm And Haas, Bristol/now Dow Chemical (RHS), Tinicum Twp. (TNT)

A total of 108 species was reported on the breeding bird chart submitted with this report. Of these, 78 were confirmed, 27 were probable, and 3 were possible. Temperatures were above normal both months, with July about 3°F above. Twenty-two days had highs exceeding 90°F. Rainfall amounts vary greatly from place to place, as always this time of year. The reference point at nearby Trenton, New Jersey had a deficit of about 1.7 inches, but, in general, it seemed most areas were very dry. Although fledgling production seemed good, the very hot July days were apparently stressful, resulting in unusually low bird activity and near absence of bird song. Even the vireos stopped singing, but resumed in August when the weather cooled. Whether this stress resulted in mortality of young birds is impossible to confirm.

As usual, historical references are from Birds of Bucks County by Ken Kitson 1998, and subsequent updates recorded in this journal. Weather statistics are from nearby NOAA at Trenton. The stated normal reference period used on the NOAA web-site is based on the recent three decades 1981-2010.

One of the injured Snow Geese continued through the period at PVP after its long staying companion vanished after 6/2 (AM). One also continued at Hilltown Twp. (HE). The long staying pair at Silver Lake, Newtown were still there 6/11 (BK), with one remaining 7/29 (MG). Wood Duck had a good breeding season, with 80 at PVP 7/25 the high report for the period (AM). A rather rare summer American Black Duck was at State Game Land 56 on 7/29 (PC). The high single site report of Mallard was 126 at Morrisville Levee 7/3 (BK). An out of season male Northern Pintail was at Warminster Community Park 6/15-17 (GJ) for only our second known Jun report. Two Green-winged Teal at PWT 7/31 (DF) provided a rare Jul report. Common Merganser has nested at several sites over the years along the Delaware R. The reports of young this year came from the Delaware R. at New Hope (BH) and near Prahl’s Island (PC). They were also regular during the period at Morrisville Levee (BK, MG).

An immature Common Loon remained through the period at CVP (m.ob.). At least one Pied-billed Grebe pair was present at the former US Steel, Falls Twp. 6/22 (DF), our only known breeding site. One was at nearby Falls Twp. Community Park 7/18 and 7/27 (MG). Numbers of summering Double-crested Cormorants vary from year to year. There were eBird entries from 13 sites, with high reports this year of 21 at Morrisville Levee 6/6 (BK) and 23 at PVP 6/14 (AM). They have not successfully nested here. Historically, nests were built at PVP in early Jul 1998, mid-May 1999, and late Jul 2005 (AM). If it hadn’t been destroyed somehow, the May nest was probably the only serious attempt that could have been carried to completion. Great Egret was reported from at least 14 sites (m.ob.). The highest counts were 32 at RHS 7/29 (DF), 9 at PVP 7/22 (SG), 8 at Washingtown Crossing Park 7/26 (MG), 8 at CCP 7/29 (MG), 4 at CVP 7/28 (VD), 3 at Silver Lake Park 7/21 (MG), 2 at Bradford Dam 7/18-25 (GJ, KRi), and 2 at Pine Run Dam 7/26 (MH). All other reports were of one bird. Two Snowy Egrets were first noted 7/29 at RHS (DF), for the only report. Three juv. Little Blue Herons were at RHS 7/29 (DF). Two to 3 were at CCP 7/29-31 (MG). Single Black-crowned Night-Herons were reported at CVP 6/9 (JC, HD), Silver Lake Park 6/16, 7/21, and 7/29 (MG), Bristol Marsh 7/4 (MG), Pine Run Dam 7/26 (MH), and Upper Makefield firehouse 7/27 (MG). PVP had 2 birds starting 6/26, including one juv. (MR, AM, JMi). The high count was 3 there on 7/25 (AM). There are no breeding reports since the early 1980s.

Black Vulture nested in an old barn in Nockamixon Twp., with one well grown juv. photographed (LS, ph.). Another nest was reported near MKF (fide RS). Turkey Vulture nested for the fifth year in a row under the same fallen tree near MKF (RS) and produced 2 fledglings (RS, VS). On 7/14 at PVP, a freshly mowed field of approximately 15 acres leased by a farmer had 43 Turkey Vultures and 5 Black Vultures harvesting all the wildlife that apparently perished due to the mowing. Although there are only three reported nest sites for Osprey in the county, there were reports throughout the period from at least a total of 16 sites (m.ob.). Two Ospreys fledged from each of the Mud Island (DF) and Riegelsville nests (EB, AK, EN). The third nest’s success was unreported. A Mississippi Kite flew over a Newtown yard 6/12 (BS, no doc.) while the observer was mowing the lawn. Four of our known Bald Eagle nest sites had young. There were 9 young total (JP, JMa, DF, EN, EB). One existing nest in Bensalem Twp. moved to a new location nearby (DF, JMo). The CCP nest had a pair of adults, but nesting did not occur. Although last season I reported that the dead eagle found there was not one of the local pair, it is now suspected that it was, and a new bird joined the surviving bird but too late to get their act together for breeding (MF). Pairs continue to be reported regularly at other sites, and more nests probably exist. Red-shouldered Hawk was not detected at two of three sites in TNT where they nested in recent years (DA). Nesting was reported at Nockamixon Twp. (fide DF). One was at Applebachsville 7/22 (PT) near Lake Towhee Park where they are expected in summer and one was at PVP 7/23 where unexpected (AM). Broad-winged Hawk was reported from only two or three sites (PC, DF, PT). Only time will tell if the nest box efforts for American Kestrel will increase local numbers. One nest box manager had 30 boxes, with six occupied, and produced 20 fledglings (SB). Another effort of 65 nest boxes, of which 32 had pairs with eggs, resulted in 23 boxes producing 96 fledglings (DF). One box produced two groups of fledglings. Most of the young were banded before fledging. The two reported Peregrine Falcon nests resulted in one nest fledging 4 young starting 6/3 and one nest failing due to “almost certain” Great Horned Owl predation that killed two hatchlings and the adult female (AMc). One of the fledglings at the other nest later got caught in a fenced area with barbed wire resulting in injury and infection. It was taken to rehab, where it recovered, and at this writing the plans are to release it (HE).

Early shorebird migration was noted in small numbers. The first southbound migrants of the more common species were reported as follows: one Solitary Sandpiper at CVP 7/15 (DF); one Lesser Yellowlegs at RHS 7/8 (DF); one Semipalmated Sandpiper at RHS 7/15 (DF); and 5 Least Sandpipers at CVP 7/7 (VD). Not so easy to find here, a Pectoral Sandpiper was in a farm field near Richboro 7/29, with 50+ Killdeer and 15+ Least Sandpipers (HD). The high report for Least Sandpiper was 55 at CCP 7/17 (BK). Two Spotted Sandpipers at Warminster Community Park 6/17 (GJ) probably indicates breeding again at this regular site. An American Woodcock at PVP 6/29 (KRo, ph.) was the only report. Five species of gulls remain in relatively small numbers throughout the summer each year at Falls Twp., with total numbers varying in the hundreds (DF). Most are immature birds. The five species are Laughing Gull, Ring-billed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, and Great Black-backed Gull. There was limited count data available for determining total magnitude, so the following is just a sample at Morrisville Levee 7/3, with counts of 15 Ring-billed Gulls, 215 Herring Gulls, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and 20 Great Black-backed Gulls (BK). A first summer Laughing Gull away from the lower Del. R. was an unexpected find at PVP 6/2 (AM, ph.). An adult Ring-billed Gull 6/30 at PVP (AM), followed by more there and at other sites away from the lower Del. R. through the month, were likely returning migrants (m.ob.). A Lesser Black-backed Gull at PVP starting 6/24 (AM) increased to 3 starting 7/22 (KS). These may be returning migrants as well.

Cuckoos are always reported in small numbers but this year they were particularly scarce. Yellow-billed Cuckoo was reported from only seven sites on only about 10 dates (m.ob.). There was only one bird per report. One Black-billed Cuckoo was at PWT starting 6/2 (DF) for the only report. A single Barn Owl was reported at an upper county site starting 6/4, and another site had 5 young at a nest 6/12 for our first reported successful nesting since 2003. It was believed the 2 smallest young provided nourishment for the bigger siblings based on evidence at the site on a later visit. The adult Red-headed Woodpeckers at the TNT breeding site were feeding young in the nest 6/24, but one of the adults was killed by a car around 7/4 (DA). By 7/20, the surviving adult and 2 juv. were at a nearby peanut feeder (KF). The site found near Quakertown this spring still had one or two adults 7/6, indicating another probable nesting site (DF). The Quakertown area has long been known to harbor breeding and wintering Red-headed Woodpeckers, where they are probably more regular than the sporadic reports. Four Common Ravens were reported at Harrow, Nockamixon Twp. 6/9 (MG). One was near Uhlerstown 6/13 (AG), and one flew over PVP 7/2 (AM). One was heard or seen on three dates in East


Rockhill Twp. (HR, JR). The Purple Martin colony in East Rockhill Twp. had a banner year

with 71 nests with young out of a total of 91 gourds. The total hatched was 251, but some late nests probably produced another 10. The last departures occurred 8/10 (HR, JR). A Purple Martin roost at PVP starting in late Jul was unusual and peaked at 96 birds 7/23 (AM). The only reported Bank Swallow colonies are in Falls Twp. where total rough estimates of 200 nests were counted 6/17 (DF). Fox predation was believed to be occurring there. Barn Swallow was also reported as having a banner year at the East Rockhill site (HR, JR). Post breeding gatherings had good numbers as well (m.ob.). Hard to explain after no reports in the county of Red-breasted Nuthatch during the spring season, and in particular none at CVP where they have nested recently, 2 birds including a juv. were found 6/23 at the previous nesting site there (MC, RS). One continued to be seen into Jul (VD, CS).

A total of 16 warbler species were reported during the period; all but one of these were likely breeding birds. Kentucky Warbler and Chestnut-sided Warbler, two of our rarest breeding warblers now, were not reported but hopefully were present somewhere. Cerulean Warbler hasn’t been reported breeding in several years. The Prothonotary Warblers at PVP were seen feeding young out of the nest starting 6/16 (RW). This is the first reported successful nesting in a few years for the county. The last report of the family group was 7/14 (ML, MH). One above Riegelsville found at the end of May was still singing 6/6 (MH, ML) but was not reported again. A Blackpoll Warbler 6/2 at MKF (RS) was the only lingering migrant warbler reported. A Yellow-throated Warbler was found at Riegelsville 6/1 (EB) and was noted again 6/18 (AM, JMi), indicating probable breeding there. This was the only reported breeding site for the species this year. Yellow-breasted Chat was at Falls of Delaware Park 6/23 (MG) for the only report.

Savannah Sparrow was again confirmed breeding at MKF where juvs. were noted 6/18 and 7/22 (RS). One was also reported in both months at Warminster Community Park (GJ), where they are presumed breeding. Grasshopper Sparrow continued through June at their TNT hayfield sites, with 4 last reported at Van Sant Airport 7/7 (PC). No Blue Grosbeaks were reported away from their regular PWT and USS locations (DF). Three male Dickcissels were detected at PWT but at a new site starting 7/8 (DF), making this the fifth year in a row in that area. The original site could not be accessed. One was still there 7/15 (DF). Bobolinks were reported as usual in the TNT hayfield breeding sites (KA, BB, PC, AM, JMi). Eastern Meadowlark was only reported at five probable breeding sites, with one juv. noted 6/1 at TNT (AM, JMi), and 6 birds at Bedminster Twp. 7/13 (DA) a good indicator of breeding there.

EXOTICS: Egyptian Goose continues to be reported in the county where they have successfully bred in the past. Three were at Tullytown 7/21 (MG, ph.). Observers: August Mirabella, 1443 Wheaton Lane, North Wales, PA, 19454, (215) 368-0594, [email protected], Kris Ahlquist, Diane Allison, Steve Benningfield, Erich Boenzli, Brian Byrnes, John Cariola, Marlin Corn, Paul Cooper, Henry D’Alessandro, Vince DeAntoniis, Steve Donovan, Lisa V. Dziuban, Howard Eskin, Devich Farbotnik (DF), Kathleen Fitzgibbon, Roy Frock, Mark Fruman, Mark Gallagher, Scott Godshall, Al Guarente, Ray Hendrick, Bill Hoehne, Mike Homel, Gail Johnson, Bill Keim, Ken Kitson, Arlene Koch, Mike Line, Many Observers (m.ob.), Joe Marino (JMa), Art McMorris (AMc), Carole Mebus, Judy Mirabella (JMi), John Morgan (JMo), Ed Norman, John Papson, Ken Rieker (KRi), Kathleen Rohrer (KRo), Hart Rufe, Jewel Rufe, Margie Rutbell, Larry Sassaman, Kurt Schwarz, Bob Shaffer, Richard Smith, Vicky Smith, Chris Stieber, Paul Teese, Rick Wiltraut, Nick Zahn. Butler County No compiler. Cambria County Locations: Patton (PA), Prince Gallitzin St. Park (PG), St Lawrence (STL).

The county’s first Bald Eagle nest was at PG. The pair raised two young. American Kestrels had three nests and raised twelve young in the boxes at PG (DG). Virginia Rails continue to be probable nesters in the wetlands at PG. Several males were heard calling throughout the period (JS). Alder and Willow Flycatchers were seen at PG (DG, JS). Purple Martins have begun nesting at another site near PG. They continue to expand as the first pair began breeding at PG in 2009. The site at PG had 55 young fledged this year. On a trip around the PG 7/3 The following warblers were heard and seen, Northern Parula, Magnolia, Black-

throated Green, Blackburnian, Pine, and American Redstart (RB, DG, JS). Yellow-rumped and Prairie warblers were singing on territory at STL (DG, JS). Unusual was the sighting of a Savannah Sparrow using display tactics 5/12 in a grass field near PA (DG). The early warm weather must have had something to do with it as I’m sure there was a nest nearby. Orchard Orioles were feeding fledged young at PG on 7/3 (RB, JS). Observers: Dave Gobert, 287 Beech Rd. Patton, PA 16668, (814) 674-8359, [email protected], Rory Bower, John Salvetti. Cameron County No Compiler. Carbon County No report. Compiler: Dustin Welch, 7122 Arrowhead Road, Bath, PA 18014, (484) 538-7486, [email protected]. Centre County Locations: PSU Arboretum (ARBOR), Bald Eagle S.P. (BESP), Black Moshannon S.P. (BMSP), Colyer L. (COL), PennDOT remediation ponds on Rte. 220 west of Julian (JUL), Millbrook Marsh Nature Center (MMNC), Scotia Barrens and Pond (SCO), Toftrees pond and gamelands (TOF)

Although the summer seemed blisteringly hot, the June temperatures averaged about normal. July was another story. Temperatures really were intense, with above average highs on 25 days, 10 of which were in the 90s. Perhaps the weather had an impact on the birds, since there several first summer observations reported in Centre. Background and status information is from Birds of Central Pennsylvania by Nick Bolgiano and Greg Grove, 2010 (B&G, 2010). Weather data are from AccuWeather <http://www.accuweather.com> and the Weather Channel <http://www.weather.com>.

With the exception of Mallards, ducks tend to be few and far between during the summer. This year, however, several were spotted by area birders. The first summer Gadwall reported in Centre, a female, was observed 7/10-30 Duck Pond (AL, AnF, JoL). DW, AL reported an uncommon American Black Duck 7/10, Duck Pond, and DW found another 7/21 BESP. A rare summer Blue-winged Teal was identified 6/3 BMSP (JD). Green-winged Teal are also rare summer ducks, and AL noted a female 7/30 Old Gatesburg Rd. A male Canvasback decided to spend the summer at the Duck Pond, with reports 6/11-23 (AL, et al.) This was a summer first for Centre. Also hanging out at the Duck Pond was another summer first—a Redhead. This female was first reported 6/11 (AL), with additional observations 7/10-30 (AL, SWa, AmW, AnF, JoL). For an estimated 20 straight months, a male Ring-necked Duck has called the pond home (AL, et al.) A Hooded Merganser was observed 6/14 German Settlement grasslands (DW, AL), and MD reported Centre’s second summer Red-breasted Merganser 6/5 at BESP.

Coming off the spring’s Northern Bobwhite reports was a sighting of a pair in Park Forest sometime around 6/1 (TC, SC). Although this used to be a common species, it is now considered to be extirpated, and observed birds are considered to be escaped or feral birds. There were two reports of Ruffed Grouse. Four were noted 7/2 Council Run (StB), and DO found one 7/12 Unionville.

Two Pied-billed Grebes were observed 6/9 JUL, and 2 more 6/16 Tennessee Rd. sewage ponds (both JH). MD also found one 7/11 COL. Double-crested Cormorants are rare during the breeding season. As many as 3, at least 2 of which were immature, were observed 7/20-28 BESP (AL, AnF, DW, SB, Bald Eagle SP eTT Data). There were 2 reports of Great Egrets, one at BESP 7/27 (Bald Eagle SP eTT Data) and another 7/28-30 JUL (AL, JoL).

There were only two reports of Black Vultures at Rock Springs, one 6/16, and two 7/29 (JD). Osprey continued to be rare summer birds, with one 7/19-25 BESP (Bald Eagle SP eTT Data, CE, SB), 7/21 COL (DW), and 7/26 MMNC (AC). Up to 3 Bald Eagles were regularly observed BESP 6/1-7/27 (AR, et al). An adult pair noted 6/27-7/5 Fisherman’s Paradise (AL), and DO spotted one 7/25 Unionville. Area birders reported 4 Red-shouldered Hawks, one each at COL 6/3-10 (CE, MoM, MaS), BESP 6/9 (JH), Bear Meadows 6/23 (AL), and off Neff Rd. (SGL 100) 7/29 (JD). The first summer report of a Merlin in Centre was on 6/23 German Settlement grasslands (DA).

Unusual shorebird species made an early appearance this summer.


Two Semipalmated Plovers were seen 6/8 Tadpole Rd. (DW). This was a second county record, with the first last summer. The third county record came hard on the second’s heels when DW, MD identified a single bird 6/12-13 at BESP. Up to 3 Solitary Sandpipers were also reported at are a ponds and lakes, with observations coming from 9 locations between 7/5-23 (AL, et al.) Two Lesser Yellowlegs were at Old Gatesburg Rd. 7/10 (AL, AC, JoL). Two to six Semipalmated Sandpipers were noted 7/10-21 BESP (AL¸ AnF, DW) and 2 more 7/21 Blue Course retention pond (AL, AnF). These appear to be the third and fourth Centre records for July for this species. A few Least Sandpipers migrated through in July, beginning 7/2 at Blue Course retention pond (DW). An adult Baird’s Sandpiper was noted 7/20 at BESP (AL, AnF). This was a county first record for July. A Pectoral Sandpiper was at COL 7/22 (JD).

The county’s second report for June of a Bonaparte’s Gull occurred 6/13 BESP (MD). The first report for this month was in 2011. Although common to abundant much of the year, Four Herring Gulls were identified at BESP 7/20 (CE), and a Forster’s Tern 7/21, also at BESP (DW); these species are uncommon to rare during the summer.

After the first Centre report in April 2011 and the spring 2012 observations, Eurasian Collared-Doves were again noted, with one or 2 birds on N. and S. Nixon Rd. 6/17-30 (JD, AL, CE, DW, KE) and a single bird 7/18-30 (AC, KE, CE). Only three Common Nighthawks were observed. AL identified one 6/23 Pine Grove Mills; BS heard one 7/1 Howard, and JD noted one 7/17 State College. Eastern Whip-poor-wills, on the other hand, were spotted a little more often. On 6/14 JD found 2 Bear Meadows and 6 Treaster-Kettle Rd. AL, JoL noted 5 Scotia Range Rd. 6/30. DW, AL found three 7/5 on Sandy Ridge Trail and 2 more where that trail meets Ponderosa Dr. The last reports for the season were on 7/10, when JD noted the species at SCO; DW, AL located 6 the same day at Bear Meadows and 3 more on Treaster Kettle Rd.

A few single Red-headed Woodpeckers were noted, with one spotted 6/11 Deibler Rd. (JD), and another 6/14 Ross Hill Rd. (DW, AL). The only pair was seen over a three week period 7/1-21 around the Deibler Rd.-Rte. 45 intersection (AL, JoL, StB, AnF). The 7/19 BESP report (Bald Eagle SP eTT Data) and the 7/27 Moonhill Ln. observation (JK) were both of single birds. Three uncommon summer Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were present, with one each noted 7/2 Council Run and 7/3 off Rte. 144 (both StB), and 7/9-21 West Gatesburg Rd. (AL, StB, AnF).

Centre’s third June report of Olive-sided Flycatcher was made 6/6 off Rte. 144 (StB). One to four Acadian Flycatchers were observed 6/2-7/8 Bear Meadows (JD, et al.), and one each on 6/5 Bullit Run Rd. (NF) and 6/17 MMNC (CE). IG, CE, JV found 2-5 at Musser Gap 6/5-24, and NiB located one 7/9 Eddy Lick Run. Single Alder Flycatchers were reported 6/3-20 BMSP (JD, DW, AL), 6/3-13 BESP (CE, JH), 6/23 COL (AL), and 7/8 Bear Meadows (DoW). DW, AL noted two 6/20 Mid-State Airport. Most Least Flycatcher reports were in June, beginning with 4 Bear Meadows 6/2 (JD), 1-3 BESP 6/3-14 (CE), and 2 SCO 6/5 (JZ). JD found one on Yost Ridge Rd. 6/10, and DW, AL noted 2 Black Moshannon Rd. 6/20. There were two observations on 6/23 – one of 6 birds off Rte. 144 (JH) and 2 Bear Meadows (AL). The last reports were 7/9-16 of up to 3 birds on Scotia Range Rd. (AL, StB, CE).

AR eyed a single White-eyed Vireo 6/1 BESP, and DW tallied a Yellow-throated Vireo 6/5 Yeager Hollow Pond. The latter species was also noted 6/29 SCO (AnK) and 7/8 COL (AL). The third uncommon vireo species of the summer was first reported 6/5 when MD observed a Warbling Vireo near Stormstown.

Fish Crows are common around State College but uncommon elsewhere in Centre, where a few were reported. CE, MD, AL, DW observed 2 BESP 6/3-19. South of State College, IG, KW found one 6/8 Old Gatesburg Rd., AL noted one 6/10 Pine Grove Mills and another 6/11 Tadpole Rd. One was observed 6/21 German Settlement grasslands (CE) and another 6/27 Unionville (DO). The Common Raven lived up to its name, with regular and widespread reports throughout the county during the summer. A few Horned Larks were reported at three locations. One was spotted 6/14 German Settlement grasslands (DW, AL), where two were noted 7/1-28 (AL, JoL). JD found one 6/17 N. Nixon Rd, while S. Nixon Rd. was a hotbed of activity with up to 17 noted 6/17-7/29 (JD, et al.)

Swallows were well represented during the breeding season. With the exception of 2 Purple Martins spotted 7/20 Curtin wetlands (AL, AnF), all other reports were from the BESP-Howard area. MD, JD spotted one 6/13-14 BESP, while AL, JoL, AnF noted 8-9 Howard 7/1-20. JD, et al. observed up to 20 BESP 7/7-24. The 3 Bank Swallows spotted 6/2 Oak Hall (JD) were the only ones reported in June. However, a single bird was reported 7/1-23 BESP (AL, JoL, DW). Other sightings included a high of 6 noted 7/16 TOF (AL, DW), one each 7/17-21 COL (DW) and 7/20 Curtin wetlands (AL, AnF). At least one was spotted 7/30 Old Gatesburg Rd. (AL, DW, AnF). Cliff Swallows, while not common, were reported regularly in Centre, with observations coming from eight locations. The most noted at one time was

40 reported 7/30 Old Gatesburg Rd. (AL, DW). Only one Red-breasted Nuthatch was observed 6/20 State College

(CE). One or two Brown Creepers were spotted 6/2-12 Bear Meadows (JD, CE). July reports of this uncommon breeder included one each on 7/2 Council Run and two locations near 7/3 Little Sandy Run (both StB). EdS found a Winter Wren 6/4 MMNC, and AL, DW located a rare summer Golden-crowned Kinglet 6/14 Stony Run Rd. Veery is an uncommon breeding species, but it was reported in 15 locations between 6/2-7/21. Hermit Thrushes are uncommon except on the Allegheny Plateau. Non-plateau reports included 2 Tow Hill 7/2 (MD), 4 Treaster Kettle Rd. 7/10 (DW, AL), and one each 7/22 Bear Meadows (JD, AL) and 7/24 Seven Mtns. Boy Scout Camp (MD).

Several uncommon warblers were reported; a few of these were observed widely in small numbers throughout Centre during the breeding season: Black-and-white Warbler, Hooded Warbler, and Chestnut-sided Warbler. Single Worm-eating Warblers were spotted 6/2 Bear Meadows (JD), 6/5 Musser Gap (IG), 6/10 Mid-State Airport (JV), 6/13 Bear Gap Rd. (DG, GG), 7/2 Tow Hill (MD), 7/5 ARBOR (AC), and 7/31 SCO (MD). JD found a Louisiana Waterthrush 6/2 off Neff Rd., while DW, DO located one 6/5 and 6/22 Unionville. DO also noted one continuing 7/10-25 Unionville. IG had the high number, with 2 observed 7/17 Galbraith Gap. All Blue-winged Warbler sightings were in June, with CE, LoW, MD reporting single birds 6/3-13 BESP. JZ, DW, AL observed 2 SCO 6/5-13. Golden-winged Warblers were slightly more common. Up to 4 were noted 6/1-9 BESP (AR, LoW, MD, JH) and as many as 3 were spotted 6/2-13 SCO (MD, JD, JZ, AL, DW). StB reported one 6/6 off Sawmill Rd., JD noted another 7/10 SCO, and AL, AnF found 2 south of the Barrens on Scotia Range Rd. 7/21. WL photographed a “Blue-winged/Golden-winged hybrid” 6/14 BESP giving a Golden-winged Type I call. Kentucky Warblers are rarely reported during the breeding season; however, one or 2 were noted 6/7-19 Scotia Range Rd. (DW, MD, JV, IG). JV recorded their songs 6/8. They were also spotted 6/8-13 nearby off W. Gatesburg Rd. (IG, et al.) A Cerulean Warbler was noted 6/9 Musser Gap (CE), and 1-2 Northern Parulas were observed 6/5 Yeager Hollow Pond (DW) and 6/23-25 Unionville (DO). Half a dozen Magnolia Warblers were reported: two 6/12-23 Bear Meadows (CE, AL), one 6/20 BMSP (DW, AL), and 3 Eddy Lick Run 7/9 (NiB). Although still uncommon, Blackburnian Warblers and Black-throated Blue Warblers were encountered more frequently. A high of 7 Blackburnians were observed 6/5 Musser Gap (IG), and up to 6 birds were reported at 11 other locations 6/6-7/9 (StB, et al.). NiB hit the Black-throated Blue jackpot 7/9 at Eddy Lick Run, where he noted 26 birds. JD, et al. reported up to 4 birds 6/2-7/22 Bear Meadows. JD found a Pine Warbler 6/2-16 Rock Springs, while JZ, JD noted 1-2 as being present 6/5-11 SCO. Up to 4 were reported 6/12-7/11 Scotia Range Rd. (AL, DW, AnK, StB), and DA encountered one 6/23 German Settlement grasslands. Single Yellow-rumped Warblers were observed 6/3-20 BMSP (JD, DW, AL) and 6/10 German Settlement grasslands (JD). CE found two 6/12 Bear Meadows. All the reported Prairie Warblers were found on the Allegheny Plateau. JV, DW, AL, JH found up to 10 around a reclaimed stripmine on Rusnak Hill Rd. 6/3-16. One was spotted 6/15 German Settlement grasslands 6/15 (SB) and again 7/1 (AL, JoL), while JV identified 8 at Panther Grassland 6/16. One bird was also noted 6/29 off Kato-Orviston Rd. (SB). A few Canada Warblers were also identified. Birders visiting Bear Meadows 6/2-12 reported up to 4 (JD, MoM, MaS, AL, CE) and up to five 7/8-22 (DoW, JD). JD also noted at least one 6/3 BMSP, and JV spotted another 6/17 Faust Valley Trail. Four were located 7/3 near State Line Rd. (StB), and four more 7/9 Eddy Lick Run (NiB). Other than the one Yellow-breasted Chat found 6/16 Panther Grasslands (JV), all other Chat reports were of one or both members of a pair BESP. First noted 6/2-18 (LoW, et al.), BS photographed one 6/17 “holding 3 small, green caterpillars, so [a] good indication that the pair is nesting.” After a two week hiatus, the pair was again being reported 7/1-20 (StB, et al.).

Area birders reported several uncommon to rare sparrows. Of these, Savannah Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, and Swamp Sparrow were widely reported in small numbers in appropriate habitat. NF, DW, AL, JH each found single Vesper Sparrows 6/4-16 German Settlement Grasslands, while MSc noted another one 6/10 Sayer’s Dam spillway backwater and two 6/18 BESP. One was reported 7/2 Livestock Evaluation Center off Rte. 45 (DW), who also spotted 1-2 on S. Nixon Rd. 7/2-17. The last Vesper Sparrow reported was 7/22 COL (JD). Henslow’s Sparrows are rarely encountered, so JD’s 6/9 report of 9 German Settlement grasslands was notable. JV observed one Rusnak Hill Rd. 6/9 and 2 Panther grasslands 6/16. KE, CE spotted one 6/21 off German Settlement Rd.

Those visiting the higher elevations of the county found a few Dark-eyed Juncos, an uncommon breeding species here. Up to 4 were noted 6/2-10 at Bear Meadows (JD MoM, MaS). Two were seen 6/20 Black Moshannon Rd. (DW, AL); AL also spotted one the same day Mid-State


Airport. NiB reported the high number with the 6 he observed 7/9 Eddy Lick Run. One of the wandering A Dickcissel reported 6/14 in eBird was photographed 6/29-30 near the intersection Tadpole Rd. and Rte. 45 (DW, JSt, LiS). This rare species is a casual visitor in Centre.

Three uncommon Icterids were reported. MB spotted 3 Bobolink 6/1 Mt. Pleasant Rd., and BS, JD noted 8 “displaying and singing” 6/2 Mountain Rd. One was observed 6/14 Woodward Gap (AL, DW), and DW bookended the season 7/5 with 3 on Mt. Pleasant Rd. Eastern Meadowlark were widespread in small numbers throughout the breeding season. Most Orchard Oriole sightings were from BESP 6/2-7/27, where up to 3 were observed (LoW, AR, Bald Eagle SP eTT Data, IG, DW). AL spotted one 6/11 Tadpole Rd. and two 6/12 Old Gatesburg Rd. CE identified one 6/17 MMNC, and AL, AnF found 2 JUL 7/30.

With the exception of a 6/1 sighting of a Purple Finch in State College (CE) and a 7/24 report BESP (Bald Eagle SP eTT Data), all summer reports of this uncommon breeding species were from the Allegheny Plateau portion of Centre. As many as 3 were spotted at the reclaimed stripmine along Rusnak Hill Rd. 6/3-16 (JV, DW, AL, JH). Two more were noted 6/16 Panther Grassland (JV). Single birds were observed 6/20 on the Smays Run Trail and at Mid-State Airport (both DW, AL). JoL, AL also found one 7/1 at BMSP. Observers: N.J. Butkovich, 550 TOF Ave. #248, State College, PA 16803, (814) 234-6086, [email protected], Dan Altif, Bald Eagle SP eTT Data, Nick Bolgiano (NiB), Susan Braun, Steve Brenner (StB), Margaret Brittingham, Alyssia Church, Sara Conkling, Tom Conkling, Mike David (MiD), Mike Dreibelbis, Jim Dunn, Carl Engstrom, Kurt Engstrom, Anna Fasoli (AnF), Nate Fronk, Ian Gardner, Deborah Grove, Greg Grove, Delia Guzman (DeG), Jason Hill, Donna Hughes, Jon Kauffman, Andy Keister (AnK), Nick Kerlin, Tom & Janet Kuehl (T&JK), Alex Lamoreaux, Gretchen Lasser, Wayne Laubscher, Josh Lefever (JoL), Mark McConaughy (MaM), Molly McDermott (MoM), Dan Ombalski, Andrew Rothman, Matt Schenck (MSc), Matt Shumar (MaS), Bob Snyder, Edmond Spaeth (EdS), John Stevens (JSt), Linda Stevens (LiS), Melanie Torres (MTo), Joe Verica, Amy Walker (AmW), Steve Walker (SWa), Lewis Warren (LoW), Kathleen Webber (KW), Drew Weber, Doug Wentzel (DoW), Jay Zook. Chester County Locations: Bucktoe Creek Preserve (BCP), Chambers Lake (CL), Cheslen Preserve (CP), Exton Park at Church Farm School (EP), Marsh Creek State Park (MCSP)

The summer of 2012 saw record heat throughout much of the region in Jun and Jul. Record breaking temperatures made for some uncomfortable birding conditions, but birders continued to monitor the breeding birds, and find some unusual summer visitors, especially wading birds. Along with the heat, lack of measurable rainfall dried up some formerly wet areas, and produced overall dry conditions.

The mismatched Mute Swan and Trumpeter Swan pair, dubbed the “odd couple” by some local birders, spent time at CL through 6/17 (RR), then went missing until relocated at a much smaller venue: the Parkesburg Walmart Retention Pond 6/29 (CC, EC). The duo spent time active feeding in this location through 7/5 (m.ob.). A Hooded Merganser was discovered at EP by participants of a birdwalk 6/28 (GT et al), and was reported from this location through 7/12 (m.ob.). Another report of this species came from Devon 7/17 (AC). Since this species does not nest in the county, these mergansers are thought to be wanderers. A family group of Common Mergansers spotted 6/14 in Chester waters along the Schuylkill R. in Valley Forge NP, included a female with 3 chicks (RW). A flyover female Common Merganser was noted crossing county lines into North Coventry Twp. 6/25 (RB). A Ruddy Duck report came from Longwood Gardens 7/28 (DK).

Wild Turkeys and their poults were seen regularly in N. Coventry Twp. throughout the season (SK). An adult and an immature Pied-billed Grebe were found together on CL 7/30 (RR). This species has not been found breeding in the county since 1974. Fall migrants are typically found a month later, at the end of Aug., making this observation intriguing. The often difficult to detect and secretive Least Bittern was documented nesting in the county this summer. Due to the sensitivity of the location, further information was not disclosed. Historical evidence of nesting was previously identified in 2003 and 2010. Wading birds were definitely a seasonal highlight, and included some rare visitors, such as an adult Snowy Egret found and photographed at CP 6/6 (JM). Little Blue Herons are uncommon to rare in later summer, and are typically immature. So an adult discovered at EP 6/14 was quite a nice surprise (MD). An imm. Black-crowned Night-Heron was spotted and photographed by a kayaking birder along the edge of the lake at MCSP 7/14 (MD). Déjà vu of spring 2012 was in play when a

local birder’s spouse peeked into the retention pond in Parkesburg 7/12, and saw 3 Glossy Ibis (BRo fide RR). Despite arriving within 30 minutes of the notification, the ibis disappointed birders with their untimely departure (RR).

Territorial Virginia Rails were detected during a marsh bird survey at the Great Marsh IBA (private) both 6/8 and 6/15 (BB, BBy). Though further evidence of breeding was not found, it is presumed that this species nested in this prime location. Another good marsh bird seen was a Sora at CP 6/13 (KF).

Shorebird migration commenced with an early record established for a southbound Least Sandpiper 7/1, seen foraging along the edges of the Parkesburg Retention Pond (DF, HM). Absent in spring, a Forster’s Tern at MCSP 7/20 was the first reported tern species of the year (HM). The following day, two were reported from the same location (BQ).

A scarcity of either cuckoo species was noted throughout the county. Yellow-billed Cuckoos were found sparingly on a few occasions and in few locations: White Clay Creek Preserve (WBH, EHo) and Springlawn Trail (NP, EH) and CP (HM). There was only a single report of Black-billed Cuckoo, which was found at BCP during a birdwalk 6/18 (HD, SO, m.ob.). The place to find Eastern Whip-poor-wills in Chester is the Serpentine Barrens. Goat Hill Preserve hosted multiple birders seeking out this vocal nightjar, with up to 3 heard singing at once 6/8 (WBH) and 6/23 (HM).

Remarkable was an Alder Flycatcher at MCSP, first discovered 5/19 (AD), and continued through at least 6/24 (DF, HM). Not known to be nesting in recent years, a single Cliff Swallow seen at Longwood Gardens 7/24 was a nice find (AG). A singing Marsh Wren discovered in May at EP lingered through 6/7 (GT, m.ob.). Evidence of breeding could not be found for this rare summer resident. Notable, since this species does not nest in Chester, was a Golden-crowned Kinglet seen well at Willisbrook Preserve 7/8 (MM).

Seventeen species of warbler were found during the breeding period, and evidence of nesting was collected for many of those. Kentucky Warblers are low-density nesters in Chester, so it’s not surprising that few reports came in this summer. Two were heard from the Rushton Farm Banding Station for two weeks in Jun beginning 6/7 (DM, et al.), and another was heard within the Immaculata College campus 6/14 (NP). A vocal male Cerulean Warbler found 6/ 10 along the Red Clay Creek at BCP was rare for this property, and delighted many participants on a birdwalk (m.ob.). This bird continued there through at least 6/13 (HD). Pine Warblers, regularly found breeding at Nottingham County Park, were noted there again this year (NP). Away from that traditional site, a pair was also found nesting at Waterloo Mills Preserve in Devon (KF). One was also reported from Cassatt Preserve 6/2-5 (BR, BQ). A single report of Yellow-throated Warbler came from Springlawn Trail 6/16 (NP). Breeding was also thought to occur at Kerr Park in Downingtown, but was not conclusive. Yellow-breasted Chats are an uncommon breeding bird, and mostly found in the southern region of the county. One bird was present at BCP through at least 7/23, and a location where this species is not typically found in summer (m.ob.).

As with other field birds, Grasshopper Sparrows find little suitable breeding habitat in our populated county. There are a few good regions left, especially the Doe Run and Gum Tree areas, where multiple birds could be heard singing from horse farms 6/14 (HM). Savannah Sparrows are low-density nesters a due to limited breeding habitat. A single bird was heard singing in the Honey Brook area 7/15 (HM), and was the only report of this species.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak is an irregular breeding bird, most often found in the northern region of the county in summer. One family group visited a feeder in East Pikeland Twp 7/14 (VS). Two males were found singing at Black Rock Sanctuary 7/8, where they have been regular in previous summers (RK). One was reported from BCP during a birdwalk on 6/24 (HD, SO). BCP has hosted breeding Blue Grosbeaks for the past few years, and this year was not an exception. Male and female were noted regularly through the reporting period. Evidence of a nest or young was not determined, but suspected (m.ob.). Other reports of this species came from Inniscrone 7/1, 2 found at Loch Nairn 7/4, and one at Landenberg 7/5 (AL). The summer of 2012 proved to be one of the largest northward irruptions of Dickcissels in recent history. Pennsylvania had a strong showing of this species, and breeding was confirmed in multiple counties throughout the state. In Chester, a male was found singing in the Doe Run region 7/14-15 (HM, AD, JD). This location has historically held this species during the breeding window, though nesting has not been confirmed. Observers: Holly Merker, 520 Baintree Run, Downingtown, PA 19335, (610) 518-1703, [email protected], Barry Blust, Brian Byrnes (BBy), Alan Crawford, Amy Davis, Jeff Davis, Hank Davis, Mike Defina, Devich Farbotnik, Kevin Fryberger, Mike Gardner, Al Gaurente, W.Brian Henderson, Elaine Hendricks, Eric Houser (EHo), Kanner Learning Center Student Eagles Bird Club, Dale Kendall, Mike Keyser, Susan Killeen, Andrew Leidig, Mike McGraw, John McNamara, Sally O’Byrne, Nick


Pulcinella, Brian Quindlan, Brian Rachich, Becky Robinson (BRo), Rick Robinson, Vince Smith, George Tallman, Richard Wolf. Clarion County Locations: Cook Forest (CF), Curllsville (CV), Mount Airy (MA), Mount Zion (Piney Tract/SGL 330) (MZ), Armstrong Trail at Redbank (RB), Sarah Furnace (SF).

One of the most interesting events from the summer season involved a species not frequently confirmed breeding, although commonly seen in the county. On 7/8, a young Turkey Vulture was found still in white downy feathers, in the granary of an abandoned barn near the CV strips area (MM). The bird had been heard from approximately one week earlier making hissing sounds, but this was attributed to another animal until it was investigated further. The single young bird was observed for the next month as it gained its black adult feathering, and photos were obtained throughout this process (MM, ST, DW, CW). At one point before fledging, it was able to get out of the partitioned grain bin it had been in and move to another, probably as it was trying out its wings. It fledged approximately one month after being found and a last photo was obtained of it perched on the barn roof, where it stayed for several days after fledging. Northern Harriers continue to have a summer presence on the southern grassland areas. At a newer grassland that has been reclaimed only in the past several years along Spring Rd. near West Freedom, a female was seen hunting 6/8 (CW). At the CV strips area an adult female was present 6/1 (CW), and a pair of adults was present there 7/14 (JM,ST). At MZ, a pair was observed at the main site area 6/8,6/16,6/17, and 6/30 (CC,JV,MB,TR,PK ). On an even more positive note for breeding status, a pair of adults were seen in the same area 6/12, with the male bird observed transferring food to a female (AB). American Kestrels seen together at a recently reclaimed strip mine area outside of Rimersburg. At one point on 7/14, a total of 14 birds were seen together here, certainly a combination of at least 2 successful nests in the area (MM, ST, JM).

Another great success story for grassland breeders in Clarion is that of Upland Sandpipers at their regular breeding spot on MA. This year they were confirmed breeding 6/8 when 5-7 adults and one downy fledgling were seen (CW). At this same spot 6/18, between 4 to 5 adults continued to be seen actively flying around the field and calling frequently (CW). The owner of this property was aware of these birds and had reported seeing a young bird himself, so haying of this spot was delayed for several weeks. At the CV strips site a single adult bird was seen 6/16 (KSJ, CW). With just a single bird and at this date, it's difficult to determine status.

A single unconfirmed report of a Short-eared Owl was received for MA, a single bird seen at dusk 6/15 by the property owner. While not an experienced birder, he is familiar with these birds, as this is now one of the most reliable sites for them in the county. Interestingly the last spring report this year came from this same spot in early April. Follow-up on this sighting was done over the next few weeks but no birds were found. Eastern Whip-poor-wills were heard once again in East Brady in early June, with 2 heard calling in early evening 6/6 (PW).

Acadian Flycatchers were found again in good numbers at the two extremes of the county, at the southern border along hemlock lined streams leading down to the southern river border at SF, as well as up in the northern county edge at CF where they continued to sing 7/9 (CW). At SF five birds were heard on territory 6/18 (CW) and birds continued to sing through 7/22 (ST). Alder Flycatchers were reported from only one location, at MA 6/8, where they were heard singing in two different spots, one nearby to Willow Flycatchers which are resident during the summer (CW). A male Yellow-throated Vireo was found along the rail trail at RB 6/7 where it appeared to be defending a nest or young nearby as it was down at eye level and very agitated (RN, CW). A Blue-headed Vireo was found nesting rather late into the season 7/31 at CF where they are regular breeders (CW). On this day an adult bird was seen taking food to a nest with at least 3 visible young birds, approx 10 feet off the ground in a small hemlock.

Red-breasted Nuthatches were present at CF as they typically are during breeding season, with 3 birds heard/seen 7/9 and 2 also heard calling 7/31 (CW). In the same area on that date, a single Brown Creeper was seen and continued to sing (CW). Winter Wrens are another species typically present in this northern habitat at CF and 4 birds were present and still singing actively 7/9(CW). In this area 7/31 a group of 3 birds was seen at close range together, with one bird appearing to be a fledged young bird (CW). These birds also sometimes utilize smaller patches of appropriate habitat further south in the county, and this year a singing male was still present and vocal 7/14 at SF, along the dark hemlock forest by the stream running down to the Allegheny River here (ST). On 6/9 a report of 2 Swainson's Thrush at CF near Longfellow Trail was exciting news, leading

to the hope of finding these rare breeders here again (RN). Unfortunately a follow-up visit did not occur until 7/9 and no birds were found.

A species that has been found to be a regular breeder in the wooded hillsides of the southern border is Worm-eating Warbler. This year a total of 8 singing males were found along at least a 3 mile stretch of the Armstrong Trail and Redbank Valley Trail at RB (RN, CW). At one area of the Redbank Trail, two adults were seen with a recently fledged young bird. At SF 6/12, a single bird was found (AB), and on 6/18 a total of 5 adults were heard and seen, with 2 agitated birds at one spot, and seen carrying food (CW). These birds continued in the area until 7/14, when two adults were again seen along the start of the trail here (JM, ST). Louisiana Waterthrush also share the habitat in this area, and a single bird was heard singing here 6/18 (CW), and another bird seen still 7/14 (JM,ST). Not far from here at RB, a great total of 6 birds were both heard and seen along the rail trails 6/7, taking advantage of the many small seeps and streams running into the Allegheny here (RN, CW). A family of Black-and-White Warblers were found at SF 6/18 feeding fledged young birds (CW). Kentucky Warblers are not as regularly reported as other warbler species, so this year it was promising to find two singing males along the trails at RB 6/7 (RN,CW) as well as a single male still present at SF 7/14 (JM,ST). A nice total of 6 singing male Cerulean Warblers were also found at RB 6/7 (RN,CW), and a single male still singing was noted near East Brady 6/27 (CW). Another nice find to add to the southern records for the county was that of a territorial singing male Northern Parula found along Redbank Creek at RB 6/7, a new southern record for the county for this compiler (RN, CW). This bird was found along the trail with a section of mixed woods, including some hemlock and pine. Back north in CF, a male Magnolia Warbler was found 7/31 along part of the North Country Trail here, feeding at least one fledged young bird, a rather late breeding record for these birds (CW). At MZ, a Pine Warbler continued to be present and singing near the parking area at the main grassland site 6/5 (CW). Although these birds have been present in this seemingly appropriate habitat before, no positive breeding evidence has been obtained. A singing Canada Warbler was found rather late on 7/14 at SF, providing a new species record for this site (JM, ST). Lastly for warblers, Yellow-breasted Chats were reported regularly through the summer season at CV strips site, with up to 5 individuals seen through 7/23 (MM, SC, RM, KSJ, JV, JF, KR, et al). This species has become a consistent breeder here with the continuing great successional habitat at this site.

This summer Clay-colored sparrows were found back at MZ, where they have been largely absent for the past three years after habitat changes there made by the PGC to benefit Henslow's sparrows. Two singing males were found there 6/12 (AB) and they were reported also on various dates through the end of June as well (CW, CC, PK, MB). On MA these sparrows were also found for the first time, with a single singing male found in suitable habitat 6/8 and two birds present and singing 6/16 (CW). The area they were found in has very similar habitat to where they are found at CV strips site, where they were again present this year. Numbers at CV seemed slightly lower this year with no more than 6 birds seen at one time, sightings were received through the end of July (MM, GM, JM, ST, JF, DY, CD, et al). As usual Vesper Sparrows are the most uncommon grassland sparrow and only two reports were received from MZ, where a singing male was heard and seen 6/12 (AB) and a single bird was also reported 6/17 (JV). Grasshopper sparrows were reported in average numbers with no apparent changes noted in population. They were confirmed this year at CV strips site 6/16 with an adult seen carrying food (KSJ, CW). Henslow's Sparrows were numerous at MZ in their usual spots, with 20+ individuals not uncommon in reporting through late July (CC, JV, CW, MB, PK). The numbers at CV strips site are lower as time goes by and more of the area becomes overgrown, the highest number reported this year was 7 birds (MM, GM, JM, ST, JF, et al.). At MA as land usage changes for some of the site providing better habitat, numbers were up this year with as many as 15 birds reported and likely more present (KR, DY, JV, CW).

Certainly the best story of the summer season is the presence of Dickcissels in the county, thanks to the invasion eastward of these birds, likely due to drought conditions in their usual range. Initially found in late spring, these birds were found present in the reclaimed strip mine fields at CV strips site with 3 singing males 6/12 (CW). The field primarily being utilized was planted with switch grass and a wildflower mixture two years ago, with thistles also common. At least 3 birds were again found 6/16 (CW, KSJ), singing and appearing territorial. These birds continued to be seen at this site through the end of July (ML, RM, KR, SC, CD, DY, JF, et al.). A high number of 8 birds was reported 7/14 (JM, ST). Adult females were seen carrying both nesting material and food from 7/13 through the end of the month and photographic documentation was obtained (MM).

The season proved to be a good one for Bobolinks, with an adult carrying food at MA 6/8 (CW), and a high of 30 there 6/17 (JV). High numbers were noted also at CV strips with 40 birds reported there 6/17, likely a conservative count (JV). Purple Finches were present in a yard


near CV throughout the summer season with a pair visible almost daily at a feeder and a singing male common through mid-July when singing stopped and sightings became less frequent. This site has plantings of Norway and blue spruce present, and though breeding seemed likely, no positive confirmation was had for this year (CW). Observers: Carole Winslow, 159 Moggey Rd, Sligo, PA 16255, (814) 745-3818, [email protected], Anthony Bledsoe, Michael Bowen, Chip Clouse, Shawn Collins, Gary Edwards, Steve Gosser, Tom and Janet Kuehl, Peter Kwiatek, Mike Leahy, Jeff McDonald, Geoff Malosh, Ron Montgomery, Mark Moore, Robert Mulvihill, Richard Nugent, Theo Rickert, Kate St. John, Shannon Thompson, James Valimont, Dave Wilton. Clearfield County Locations: Clearfield (CL), Irvona (IR), La Jose (LJ) Westover (WST)

At least 13 Great Blue Heron nests were found north of WST. There were many young present in late May (DG, JS). There were lots of American Kestrels present in the large reclaimed strips near LJ in mid-July (DG). Several Acadian Flycatchers were singing near IR in early July (DG). Willow Flycatchers were probable nesters near CL (CG). Common Ravens continue to be seen and heard in more areas. Wood Thrushes are fairly common along the creek bottoms near WST. This continues to be a good nesting area for them. Magnolia, Black-throated Green and Blackburnian were singing near IR (DG). The reclaimed strips near LJ continue to hold large numbers of sparrows, including Field, Vesper, Savannah, Grasshopper, and a few Henslow’s. These birds continue to have good breeding success (DG). The area also has good numbers of nesting Eastern Meadowlarks. Observers: Dave Gobert, 287 Beech Rd. Patton, PA 16668, (814) 674-8359, [email protected], Chris Grieco, John Salvetti. Clinton County

Clinton’s original nesting pair of Bald Eagles at Kettle Creek SP again produced young this season (CCH). A second nesting pair in the Lamar area has also been confirmed (CCH). The pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers found this spring at Rote produced three young in July (DS). During a visit to a reclamation area on Beech Creek Mountain on 7/29, 2 Common Nighthawks and several Henslow’s Sparrows were found (WL). Observers: Wayne Laubscher, 749 E. Croak Hollow Rd., Lock Haven, PA 17745-8153, (570) 748-7511, [email protected], Charles and Carol Hildebrand, David Stoltzfus. Columbia County No report. Compiler: Doug Gross, 144 Winters Road, Orangeville, PA, 17859, (570) 458-4568, [email protected]. Crawford County Locations: Cambridge Springs (CS), Conneaut Lake (CL), Conneaut Marsh (CM), Custards (CUS), Erie National Wildlife Refuge (ENWR), Fish Hatchery (FH), Ford Island (FI), Geneva Marsh (GM), McMichael Road (McM), Meadville (Mead), Pymatuning Area (PYM), Pymatuning Causeway (PC), Pymatuning Goose Management Area (PGMA), Pymatuning Spillway (PS), Shellito’s Pond (SP), Springboro (SPR), Tamarrack Lake (TL), Woodcock Lake (WL).

This was the warmest summer here in several years. Levels of most lakes and ponds were slightly below normal. Tamarack Lake, south-east of Meadville (a narrow 7 mile long lake), was found in April to be leaking at the Meadville dam, and the lake was lowered five feet. By late May it was found that the eastern dam also needed attention and the lake was lowered another five feet, leaving exposed mud flats and sandy shoreline for excellent birding. It now looks like nothing can be done to repair the dams for 3-4 years.

Two Green-winged Teal were found at PGMA 6/30 (MV). The best location for Wood Duck was GM with 35 birds 7/25 (RFL). As usual

Hooded Mergansers nested, and were noted at CM, FH, PS all period (m.ob.). Four Ruddy Ducks were counted at PS 6/3 (RFL) and five were seen PS 6/27 (RFL). Two were at Tuttle Point 7/4 (SC). Two Horned Grebes were seen at PS 6/2 (MV) and the lone sighting of a Pied-billed Grebe was at FH 7/24 (SC). A nice find was a Common Loon at PC 6/16 (RCL).

A Least Bittern was seen 7/22 (SC) at McM, and one was at SP 7/29 (RFL) both birds were seen in flight. Up to 11 Great Egrets were at TL, FH, PS, and SP 7/17-28 (m.ob.). Green Herons did well this summer with totals of up to 8 birds 6/10-7/29 at several locations (m.ob.). One to 2 Sandhill Cranes were noted 6/17 PGMA (TCN), 2 were there 6/24 (SC), and one immature was at PGMA 7/21 (RFL). There were likely many more birds in the area, but they are very quiet and stay hidden in the breeding season.

A Northern Harrier was spotted 6/10 at PGM, and 7/21 and 7/29 at SP and GM (RFL). A pair of Sharp-shined Hawks was seen close up badgering an American Crow at the HM area 6/23 (RCL, RFL). A Broad-winged Hawk was seen at CM 7/4 (RFL). The nesting Osprey (2 nests) at WL produced at least 4 fledglings, but the tower nest near the PC wasn’t used except as a roost. The nest off Wilson’s Road, PGMA was town down by the utility company in July, but at least one young was produced (RFL).

Single Virginia Rails were noted at McM 6/14-7/28 (SC, RFL, IF). Ten Common Gallinules including number of young chicks were seen at GM 7/14, and 2 adults with 7 young were there 7/17 (RFL). Two were last reported at McM 7/22 (SC). A whopping 150 Killdeer were reported at TL 7/20 (SC). Seven Semipalmated Plovers were found PGMA 6/2 (MV). An excellent report of 3 American Avocets were made at TL 7/31 (SC). Six American Woodcock were flushed near the boardwalk on the Guys Mills trail ENWR 6/17 (RCL, RFL). Short-billed Dowitchers were first seen PC 7/17, and 12 were noted there 7/29 (RFL). Pectoral Sandpiper started to show up at PYM and TL 7/4 with 25 at TL alone (RFL). Two White-rumped Sandpipers were found at PGMA 6/3 (RFL, TCN) and the best number in many years was 7 on 6/3 (MV). A Baird’s Sandpiper was recorded 7/17 PC (RFL). MV reported 2 Least Sandpiper at PGMA 6/30, and 20 were noted there 7/29 (RFL). Ten Semipalmated Sandpipers were found 7/20 at TL (SC). One Sanderling showed up at TL 7/15 and 3 there 7/22 (SC). Greater Yellowlegs were first noted PGMA on 6/30 (MV) and 12 were there 7/21 (RFL). Two Lesser Yellowlegs were noted PGMA 6/2 (MV) and 60 were at PC 7/17 (RFL). A Solitary Sandpiper was noted PGMA 7/14 (RFL, IF) and 10 were found at TL 7/20 and 9/28 (SC). Upland Sandpipers were recorded 9 times for this period at PGMA from 6/16-7/31, mostly single birds, although 3 were there 7/4 (SC). Whimbrel was located at TL 7/15 (SC), and another was there 7/22 (RFL).

Two Bonaparte’s Gulls were recorded at PS 7/4 (SC). Caspian Terns were found at PYM 7/4-29 (SC, m.ob.). A pair of Forster’s Terns was seen at Tuttle Point PL 7/4 (SC).

Barred Owls were calling 6/14, 7/9, and 7/17 in Meadville and at ENWR 7/25 (RFL). An Eastern Screech-Owl was noted 6/29, and 2 young were near SPR 7/22 (TCN). A Great Horned Owl was seen near CUS 7/25 (RFL). Lone Yellow-billed Cuckoos were seen or heard at Towline Road, PYM 6/16 (RFL, RCL), Porter Road west of CL 7/14, (RFL, IF), and McM 6/18 (SC). Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers continue to well here with 6 reports 6/3-7/28 at ENWR and McM (SC, RFL, RCL, TCN, AT). Red-headed Woodpeckers were noted 6/9-24 at PGMA and McM (SC, TCN, AT, RFL, ECL). IF reported 5 Common Nighthawk in Meadville 6/22.

Most of the nesting flycatchers did well this summer, maybe due to hot dry weather. A pair of Horned Larks was reported at PGMA 6/21 (TB). Good numbers of Purple Martins were noted and new martin boxes were put up at PS and FH. Cliff Swallows nested on the FH building as usual, where an estimated at 255 were counted 7/17 (RFL). All other swallows were reported in normal numbers. A Philadelphia Vireo was found at ENWR 6/3 (SC). Single Yellow-throated Vireo were found at FI, CUS, GM, and PYM in June (RFL, RCL, IF). A Blue-headed Vireo was calling near Meadville 7/21, and 2 were at ENWR 7/25 (RFL). White-eyed Vireos were found at ENWR 6/17 and 7/25 (RFL, RCL).

A Winter Wren was found at ENWR 6/21 (SC). Up to 10 Marsh Wrens were found at McM 7/22 (SC). Two Brown Creepers were noted at McM 6/17 (RS). A Golden-crowned Kinglet was seen at ENWR 7/25 (RFL). Blue-gray Gnatcatchers were noted 6/10 and 6/16 (RFL, RCL) and at McM 6/21 (TCN, AT). Wood Thrushes seem to be doing better at least in central Crawford with a total of 52 birds recorded this period (m.ob.). Apparently Hermit Thrush was nesting at ENWR with single birds found there 6/17 (RFL, RCL) and 7/25 (RFL). A Northern Mockingbird was located north of the PC 6/16 (RFL).

A Black-and-white Warbler was calling at ENWR’s new road 6/17 (RCL, RFL). Lone Prothonotary Warblers were recorded on eight dates in June, and 2 were at the nest box at McM 6/10 (SC) and 6/16 (AL, JL, SC). A male was also seen at Phelp’s Road, PYM, 6/16 (RCL, RFL). Blue-winged Warbler were found at ENWR 6/3 and 6/21 (SC). Two Magnolia Warblers


were located ENWR 6/3 and 6/21 (SC) and a Cerulean Warbler was noted at McM 6/10 and 6/24 (SC). Chestnut-sided Warblers were recorded 6/16 in the HM area (RCL, RFL) near TL 6/17 (RFL, RCL) and ENWR 6/21 (SC). Single Blackburnian Warbler were noted at ENWR 6/3 and 6/21 (SC). A Black-throated Green Warbler was at ENWR 6/3 and 2 were there 6/21 (SC). A good find was a Yellow-breasted Chat at ENWR 6/3 (SC). The only report of Canada Warbler was 2 at ENWR 6/21 (SC).

A lone female Dickcissel was noted late spring at PGMA 5/30 (RFL), and was subsequently reported on 18 different days. The best day was 6/17 when 7 birds were at ENWR and 5 were at PGMA (SC); other were at HM, CM, CL, and TL (TCN, RCL, TB) for a total of 39 birds. Normally, Crawford may see one every 10-15 years.

Four Savannah Sparrows were noted ENWR 6/17 (RFL, RCL) and 4 at PGMA 7/14 (RFL, IF). Four Grasshopper Sparrows were at PGMA 6/14 (IF, RCL), 2 were at CM 6/23 (RFL, RCL), 2 were at Brown Hill 7/14 (RFL, IF), and one was at Wilson Road PGMA 7/14 (SC). Single Henslow’s Sparrows were seen 6/16 CM and 7/1 PGMA (RFL). One to 3 Dark-eyed Juncos were found at ENWR 6/3 to 7/25 (SC, RCL, RFL). Eastern Towhees were noted 6/16-7/21 with 6 at ENWR 6/17 (RFL, RCL). The top Bobolink total was 35 birds at Livingston Rd 6/18 (RCL). Single Orchard Orioles were found in various locations 6/27-7/21 (m.ob.). A Purple Finch was recorded at McM 6/27 and 7/1 (RFL), 2 were there 7/28 (SC), and one was near SPR 6/29 (TCN). Observers: Ronald F. Leberman, 11508 Pettis Rd., Meadville, PA, 16335, (814) 724-5071, Anthony Bledsoe, Shawn Collins, Isaac Field, Alex Lamoreaux, Robert C. Leberman, Josh LeFever, Many Observers, Thomas Clare Nicolls, Rose Noll, Randy Stringer, Adam Troyer, Mark Vass. Cumberland County

One American Black Duck was seen at Cabin Road of SGL 169 on 7/4 (VG). The Pied-billed Grebe that has been reported on the Big Spring since November 2011 was last seen 6/30 (VG). There were several summer reports of Osprey in Cumberland but no evidence of breeding. On 6/30 and 7/4 an individual adult Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was reported at the West Fairview boat ramp. Once the bird was foraging on the shore line, the second time it was seen flying along the Conodoguinet Creek (RK). Two White-rumped Sandpipers were reported at Mudlevel Road 6/2 (RK). Black-billed Cuckoo seemed to be mostly absent for the second straight summer; there was only one report for the county in the Hogshead Road area of Michaux State Forest 6/16 (VG).

There were 2 Bank Swallows seen on the Le Tort Creek 6/28 (HW). One Golden-crowned Kinglet was reported from Camp Michaux 7/21 (VG). The 2 Henslow’s Sparrows which continued from May were last reported near the intersection of Hunters and Chestnut Roads through 6/21 (HW). This coincided with the fields being mowed. From early to mid-June there were a fair number of Dickcissels reported. All the birds were males and there was no evidence of successful breeding. The first one was just west of the intersection of Route 944 and Yorwick Road 6/3-17 (DG, VG, HW, RK). There was one each on Run Rock Road and Hunter Road 6/13-21 (VG, CK, HW). Other birds were reported between 6/4-9 with 2 on Lesher Road (SF, VG, AM, KK, SS, RK), one at Hilltop Road near Newburg (SF, VG, AnM, KK, SS), and one at the intersection of Routes 997 and 696 (SF). There were also several reports of Blue Grosbeak. One of the two areas from which reports were received is just north of Newburg on or near Hannah Road and the second area just north of Newville in and around Rock Run and Hunters Road. There were two reports of a male/female pairs. There seems to be an increase in the reporting of this species over the last few years. Observers: Vernon Gauthier, 111 W. Big Spring Ave, Newville, PA 17241, (717) 385-9526, [email protected], Steve Fischer, Deb Gingrich, Kathy Kuchwara, Ramsay Koury, Annette Mathes, Sue Strassner, Herb Weigl. Dauphin County Locations: Boyds Bid Tree Preserve (BBT), Fort Indiantown Gap west corridor (FIG), Stony Creek Valley (SCV), South Hanover Twp. (SHT), Susquehanna River (SR), SR at Fort Hunter (SRFH), SR from Marysville (SRMV), SR from West Fairview (SRWF), Three Mile Island (TMI),Wildwood Lake (WL), Weiser State Forest (WSF).

Two Mute Swans were reported at the Middletown boat launch 7/29 (RK). These may be the same two that have frequented this site the past

few years but were been absent from this area after the end of the season. A female Blue-winged Teal was reported 6/7 on the North Boardwalk trail at WL (EB), and a Northern Shoveler was observed in the south compound 7/12 (RK). Another report of a Blue-winged Teal, this time a male, was made 7/21 from SRWF (R&PW). Other non-breeding waterfowl lingering into June included a Greater Scaup and two Buffleheads at SRMV 6/6 (TB), and one or two Bufflehead at SRWF through June and July (RK & AM). Four White-winged Scoters were observed from SRFH (DM). These are the first June records for the county for both Greater Scaup and White-winged Scoter. All three species of merganser were noted this season. Up to 4 Hooded Mergansers were reported from SRWF through the season (RK, R&PW). Common Mergansers were observed from both SRMV and SRFH through July with a high count of 38 on 7/14 (AM, RK). The surprise, however, was the frequency of Red-breasted Mergansers. A male was observed at SRMV 7/4, and on the same date a female was noted SRWF (RK). On 7/6 three were observed at SRWF and two were present 7/12 (RK & AM). Two or three continued to be reported through the season making for an unusual mid-summer record.

A Common Loon in basic plumage was observed 6/10 at SRFH (CC) and an even later bird was reported on the SR from N. Front St. near the southern tip of McCormick Island 6/26 (AM). This lone loon remained in this vicinity well into August and was reported once or twice a week (AM).

A Little Blue Heron was found near the Middletown boat launch 7/28 (RK). Eight Black-crowned Night-Herons were observed at SRWF 6/23 (RK). Individual Black-crowns were reported from SHT 7/5 (JG), from WL 7/21 (RK), and from along the Swatara Creek 7/24 (GD). The Yellow-crowned Night-Heron nesting colony, stretching for several blocks from Woodbine St. south to Hamilton St. and between Green St. and 2nd St. in Harrisburg seemed to thrive this summer. Utilizing mostly sycamore trees this colony may have included as many as 10 nests and were enjoyed—or at least tolerated—by the human inhabitants (m. ob.).

The Ospreys nesting on the TMI metrological tower fledged two this summer (MS). American Kestrels nested in an owl box on MSH campus. Photo cam captured their development, and five chicks fledged (4 females and one male) 6/12 (NM). The Harrisburg Peregrine Falcon pair fledged two, while the TMI pair fledged three this season (MS).

The exposed mud flats around the south compound at WL provided opportunities for migrating shorebirds. Two Pectoral Sandpipers and five Lesser Yellowlegs were observed there 7/10 and 13 Least Sandpipers were present two days later (RK). Pectoral, Least, and Solitary Sandpipers were noted 7/31 (CR). The highlight of the summer season was the discovery of a Sanderling 7/31 off the southwestern tip of TMI on the York Haven dam (GD). This is the first documented (with photo) report of this species within the county since 1943, according to Edward Frey's Centennial List of the Birds of Cumberland Co. and its Borders, when one was near the Rockville Bridge 9/17-19/1943.

The first Herring Gull of the season was reported 7/16 at SRWF (RK) and the first Great Black-backed Gull was noted on 8/1 sitting on a light standard of the George Wade Bridge (RB). The first report of Forster's Tern came 7/21 from SRWF (RK) and a Caspian Tern was observed along the SR at Millersburg 7/28 (JB).

Nesting Acadian Flycatcher was confirmed in WSF 6/10 (RK). A Least Flycatcher was among the species recorded at BBT 6/21 (EB). Bank Swallows have started to congregate at the mouth of the Swatara Creek at Middletown where 500 were counted 7/29 (RK). Over the past few years this has become quite a staging area for Bank Swallows. Hundreds, and occasionally thousands, can be easily viewed from late July through August sitting on the electric wires that cross over the mouth of the Swatara Creek at the Middletown boat launch (RW). Winter Wren was observed in SCV 6/5 (GD). Both Hermit Thrush and Veery were reported in WSF 6/10 (RK).

Golden-winged, Chestnut-sided, Black-throated Blue, Blackburnian, Hooded, and Pine were among the warbler species found in WSF 6/10 (RK). A Cerulean Warbler was reported near Carsonville 6/7 (RK) and, six were counted along the Appalachian Trail on Peter's Mt. 6/23 (AM). Ceruleans were again located on Peter's Mt. 7/6 and 7/7 (AM, RK). Worm-eating, Hooded, Chestnut-sided and American Redstart were among the warbler species found at BBT 6/21 (EB). There were two reports of Kentucky Warbler, both from Peter's Mt., the first 6/23 (AM) and the second 7/7 (RK).

The report of a White-throated Sparrow in SCV 6/24 (AM) marks the first true summer record for this species in the county. Blue Grosbeak continued on FIG property with reports of one on 6/14 and two on 7/11 (DM). Observers: Richard Williams, 3 Parkside Dr., Hummelstown, PA 17036, (717) 566-6562, [email protected], Tim Becker, Keith Bentz, Ed Bernot, Jason Berry, Randy Brenner, Chuck Chalfant, Gordan Dimmig, Carl Engstrom, Ramsay Koury, Nate McKelvie, Annette Mathes, Geoff Malosh,


Mark Markiewicz, Dave McNaughton, Pam Parsons, Chris Rebert, Mark Sweigart, Shannon Thompson, Patricia Williams. Delaware County Locations: Brandywine Conservancy, Chadds Ford (BC), Delaware River (DR), Haverford College (HC), John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum-DelCo portion (TI), Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Ridley Creek State Park (RCSP), Smedley Park (SP), Springton Reservoir (SR), Swarthmore College (SC), Thornbury Twp. Trail (TT), Tyler Arboretum (TY).

After four consecutive years of reliable appearances, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was not found behind Hank’s Restaurant in Chadds Ford BC despite several attempts to locate it (AG, NP). On-time reports of shorebirds included Semipalmated Plover DR 7/20 (AG), 4 Semipalmated Sandpipers TI 7/25 (AG), and 13 Least Sandpipers TI 7/15 (AG). These are low numbers indeed but peeps were plentiful right across the county border in the more favorable environs of the impoundments in Philadelphia. The effort of picking out peeps for personal seasonal county records pays off when you find 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls DR 7/20 (AG). Very early were 3 Caspian Terns DR 6/25 (AG). This matches to the day the previously recorded extreme early date for Delaware.

A Barred Owl RCSP 6/5, 6/6 (EW) has been present at the same location in spring and summer for several consecutive years now. Unfortunately nesting has not been documented. A Peregrine Falcon was observed by the Commodore Barry Bridge DR 6/24 (AG) where this species is known to nest.

There were no reports on the status of the Purple Martin colonies in the county, but 2 individuals were reported from Concord Twp. 6/2 (BB) and 3 were at TT 6/23 (JM). A very uncommon nesting species, Worm-eating Warbler was observed RCSP 6/24 (AG) and RCSP 7/24 (ebird report). Other notable nesters were Louisiana Waterthrush RCSP 6/3 (AG), 6/5 (EW), SP 7/31 (eBird); Kentucky Warbler RCSP 6/17 (DE); Hooded Warbler RCSP (m.ob.); and 2 Yellow-breasted Chat RCSP 6/17, 6/24 (DE, AB, DB). Observers: Dave Eberly, 112 S. Princeton Ave., Swarthmore, PA 19081 (610) 543-3499, [email protected], Adrian Binns, Debbie Beer, Brian Byrnes, Al Guarente, Lauren Johnson, Sheryl Johnson, Doris McGovern, John Mercer, Mariana Pesthy, Tom Reeves, Eric Weislogel. Elk County No Compiler. Erie County Locations: Presque Isle State Park (PISP).

It was a very interesting summer to say the least. The extreme heat of the spring continued through the summer with dry conditions. With the warmer than usual spring it was surprising to have so many lingering waterfowl, with at least seven species through at least mid-July. Stormy weather in early June carried in an unprecedented number of rarities including the second county record of Snowy Plover. This was the same bird that entertained birders at Conneaut Harbor in Ohio the day before. To keep things exciting, a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher appeared at Gull Point a few days later, also for a for a second county. There were a number of potential and confirmed first nesting records for the county this season. At least two pairs of Osprey were at nesting platforms with one successful nesting. Even though Merlins were occasionally seen in and around Erie, nesting could not be confirmed. Two pairs of Common Terns laid eggs at Gull Point on Presque isle S.P., the first time since 1995. At the Fairview Business Park a few territorial Sedge Wrens that were found in May remained to the second week of June. A pair of Clay-colored Sparrows were located at the business park in early June and remained for several days. Nesting could not be confirmed for the Sedge Wrens or the Clay-colored Sparrows. The following unusual birds were recorded from PISP unless noted otherwise.

Mute Swans successfully nested at the head of Presque Isle Bay with two cygnets observed 6/1 (JFl). Several species of waterfowl attempted to summer, mostly around Gull Point, including a single male American Wigeon 7/4 to at least 7/13 (JM), a Northern Shoveler 6/5 (WW), which was a first June record for the county, a Canvasback through 7/4 (JM), four Greater Scaup 7/13 (MV), two female Lesser Scaup 7/4 to at least 7/13 (JM), a Bufflehead 7/13, and two Horned Grebes 7/13 (MV).

A single Great Egret was at Gull Point 6/4 (JM) and another was seen over the lagoons 6/29 (JL). The Tricolored Heron found in May just barely carried over into the summer season 6/1 (JM). A pair of Osprey was observed on a nesting platform in Waterford (JH) and another pair was in Northeast Twp. (RS). The Waterford pair never produced eggs, but on 6/29 two young were observed in the Northeast Twp. nest for a first breeding record in Erie (JM). Merlin continued to be seen in several areas along Lake Erie in Erie and Millcreek, but still no nesting confirmation (MW, JFe).

Quite exciting was the worn Snowy Plover that was in Conneaut Harbor, Ohio on 6/2, which appeared at Gull Point the next day and carried over to 6/4 for a second county record (DW, ST). A banded adult Piping Plover made a brief appearance at Sunset Point 7/13 (MW). This is one of few records of Piping Plover away from Gull Point. A flock of 11 Willet was an unexpected find at Gull Point 7/13 (MV, ST). Two Red Knots passed Gull Point 6/1 during a storm (GM). Early June seems to be a reliable time to see White-rumped Sandpipers as was evident this year with up to 10 seen 6/1-4 (JM). A male Wilson’s Phalarope made a rare June appearance 6/5 and likely a different male (based upon plumage differences) was seen 6/14 (WW). An adult Laughing Gull was at Gull Point 6/1-2 (GM) and another was in a parking lot in downtown Erie on 6/11 (SC). Probably the same bird was seen again at Gull Point 6/15 (WW). On 6/22 a Common Tern nest with two eggs was found at Gull Point on PISP and on 7/9 a second nest was found containing three eggs. The first nest failed during the second week of July and the second nest failed during the fourth week of July (JM). The last attempted nesting of Common Tern on Presque Isle was in 1995.

The long hot walk out to Gull Point can often be very rewarding, as was the case on the late afternoon of 6/8 when MV spotted an immature Scissor-tailed Flycatcher perched on a dead snag. It provided a second county record. Word spread quickly and several others saw the bird that evening before it departed. Becoming regular now, but still noteworthy, was a Common Raven just on the outskirts of Union City on 6/17-18 (LR). Another was seen circling over Rt. 79 in Erie just two miles north of the Crawford line 6/22 (MW). Up to two singing Sedge Wrens were at the Fairview Business Park from 6/2 to at least 6/9 (DM, MV). The Clay-colored Sparrows found in May continued to at least 6/16 at the Fairview Business Park for a first Erie June record (MW). Quite unusual, though not unprecedented for the county, was and adult White-crowned Sparrow coming to a feeder 6/29 (AM, fide MV). Contributors: Jerry McWilliams, 3508 Allegheny Rd. Erie, PA 16508-2129, [email protected], Shawn Collins, John Fedak (JFe), Jim Flynn (JFl), Jamie Hill III, Julie Leonard, Geoff Malosh, Andrew Mashborn, Drew Mortensen, Lee Ann Reiners, Ruth Swaney, Shannon Thompson, Mark Vass, Walter Wehtje, Mike Weible, Dave Wilton. Fayette County Locations: Ohiopyle State Park (OSP), Springfield Twp. (SpT)

Summer came fast in June with very warm temperatures and little rain. A Breeding Bird Survey route that runs through Springfield, Stewart, Wharton and Henry Clay Townships provided the majority of the June reports.

Two Ring-necked Pheasants were in SpT 6/9 (GM). A Ruffed Grouse on private property in Dunbar was extremely confiding with the homeowner from 6/12 through the reporting period. At one time, the observer held out a stick and the bird jumped up and perched on it. The grouse would also come out of the woods when the observer whistled (JLa). There are accounts of aggressive and tame grouse and this is a fine example of this surprising behavior. One was at SGL 51 on 6/6 (CD). Two slightly late Great Egrets were at Jacob’s Creek Wetlands Environmental Center 6/1 (JLo). A recent map study revealed this wetland area is in Fayette, so hopefully there will be further reports from this promising site. Two Spotted Sandpipers were seen along the Youghiogheny River during a canoe trip from Dawson to Layton 7/4 (TK, JK). Four Eastern Whip-poor-wills were heard at SGL 51 near Chalkhill 7/11 (ST). A Black-billed Cuckoo was in Wharton Twp. 6/9 and two Yellow-billed Cuckoos were in Stewart Twp. that day (GM).

Acadian Flycatchers were in Stewart Twp. and OSP 6/9 (GM). Numerous ravines and stream valleys provide perfect habitat for this species. A Willow Flycatcher was in SpT 6/9 (GM). A Yellow-throated Vireo was in SpT 6/9. Three Blue-headed Vireos and five Warbling Vireos were tallied during the BBS 6/9. A great total of 83 Red-eyed Vireos were tallied during the survey (all GM).

Warbler totals from the BBS 6/9 include 4 Northern Parulas, 6 Yellow Warblers, 17 Chestnut-sided Warblers, 12 Black-throated Blue Warblers, 16 Black-throated Green Warblers, one Cerulean Warbler (at


Ohiopyle), 11 Black-and-white Warblers, 24 American Redstarts, 12 Ovenbirds and 16 Common Yellowthroats (GM). A Golden-winged Warbler observation was entered into eBird from Youghiogheny River Lake 6/11 (MM). Golden-wings have not been in OSP for years; however they may be found by searching appropriate habitat such as SGL 51 where they have been found in recent years. Hopefully more will be reported in the future. A Kentucky Warbler was also entered at the same location that day (MM). A Yellow-breasted Chat was found at OSP 6/13 (DN) at the cross country ski area; a location where they were formally easy to find. Another nice find was a Prairie Warbler at OSP 6/30 (PK).

Three Savannah Sparrows and a Grasshopper Sparrow were in SpT 6/9 (GM). A nice total of 37 Indigo Buntings were tallied during the BBS 6/9 (GM). Despite the cutting of hay in early June, the fields in SpT still harbored 4 Bobolinks and 4 Eastern Meadowlarks 6/9 (GM). Three Henslow’s Sparrows were heard near Kentuck and Middle Ridge Road near OSP 7/11 (ST). Observers: Mike Fialkovich, 805 Beulah Road, Pittsburgh, 15235, (412) 731-3581, [email protected], Cory DeStein, Peter Keyel, Janet Kuehl, Tom Kuehl, Joe Lape (JLa), Joey Loucks (JLo), Molly McDermott, Geoff Malosh, Dick Nugent, EJ Regula (EJR), Shannon Thompson. Forest County Locations: Allegheny National Forest (ANF), Buzzard Swamp (BS), Cook Forest (CF), Marienville (MA), Neiltown (NE), Tionesta (TI).

An increase in the number of eBirders in the county is helping to give this report more depth. Highlights of the breeding season include two Northern Goshawk nests, a Sora and an American Coot found at Buzzard Swamp, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Worm-eating, Cerulean, and Yellow-rumped Warblers. A Great Egret at Buzzard Swamp, although not presumed to be breeding there, was another interesting sighting.

Two adult Wood Duck and 3 young were noted 6/9 at CF along the Clarion River, as well as an adult female Common Merganser with 7 young, including 2 young riding on the adult’s back (CW). An unusual bird for the county, a Great Egret was found 7/22 at BS (ST). This species nests early and post-breeding dispersal is evident by the second week of July, so it should not be considered a breeder. The bird was still there at the beginning of Sep.

There were several reports of Osprey from BS. A large Osprey nest was built in a tree within sight of the Osprey platform which had been used the past two summers (FM, JM). An existing Bald Eagle nest near Tionesta again appeared to be successful. Two Northern Goshawk nests were found in Forest this summer, and a researcher from Maryland visited the nests with the help of some local birders. At the first nest 5/28, they captured the female, which had been banded last year, and were able to band the three chicks which were about to fledge. The male was not seen. At the second nest 5/30, they captured and banded both the male and female and banded the three chicks in the nest. Altogether the two nests most likely fledged 6 young, and 3 of the 4 adults are banded (DB, ET et al).

Three Red-shouldered Hawks were identified 7/1 and again 7/7 in the NE area (WD). A Broad-winged Hawk nest was found 7/14 in a white oak near NE (WD). There were several other reports of Broad-winged Hawks, including 7/28 at BS (ST, JeM). A family group of American Kestrels was spotted 7/21, just east of TI (ST).

A Sora heard 7/28 at BS was a nice find (ST, JeM). This falls within the safe dates and is a possible breeding record. An American Coot present 6/16 at BS is another species not usually reported in Forest, also a possible breeder (TR).

A good caterpillar population was probably responsible for a large number of Yellow-billed Cuckoo sightings over the summer, although no breeding behavior was observed. Black-billed Cuckoos were identified 6/4 near Deadman Corners (FM, JM), 7/1 near Pigeon (JF), and two were observed 7/24 at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL). An Eastern Screech-Owl was heard whinnying 7/23 near TI (FM, JM). Two Barred Owls were heard calling back and forth 7/28 at BS (ST, JeM). There was a single observation of Northern Saw-whet Owl near Pigeon 7/1 (JF). There were several reports of Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, with a family group sighted 7/1 near TI (FM).

Acadian Flycatchers were found in many locations, although no observers reported any breeding activity. The sightings included: six, tallied 6/9 at CF (RN), two 7/9 at CF (CW), and two 7/22 near Nebraska (ST). An Alder Flycatcher was heard singing 6/10 near Mayburg (T&JK). Another was observed 7/24 near MA (JL); although this was past the safe date, these two observations raise the possibility of Alders breeding in proper

habitat in Forest. The only report of Willow Flycatcher was 7/14 at McArthur Run Rd. Wetlands (AL, IG, JL). Least Flycatchers were present at several locations in the ANF (T & JK, JF, FM, JM); in addition, three were seen 6/16 at BS, two were found 6/9 at CF (RN), and a juvenile was banded 7/24 at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL). Two Eastern Kingbirds were noted 7/14 at McArthur Run Rd. Wetlands (AL, IG, JL) and three were noted 7/28 at BS (ST, JeM).

There were many reports of Blue-headed Vireo in Forest, mostly from the ANF. Notably an adult was seen 7/30 feeding at least 3 young in a nest, approximately 10’ up in a small hemlock tree at CF (CW). Red-eyed Vireos were confirmed 7/23, when 3 juveniles were identified at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL).

Common Ravens have been spotted throughout the county, with breeding confirmed 6/9 at CF when an adult was observed carrying food (RN). A colony of Northern Rough-winged Swallows has nested for years on the Tionesta Outflow bridge; they were present from 5/3 through 6/28, with several active nests (FM, JM). The only other report of this species was a single bird 6/9 at CF (RN). Bank Swallows, which had been reported in Forest every year since 1999, usually along Tionesta Creek, were conspicuously absent. A Cliff Swallow nest was found 6/8 at the West Forest School, a few miles north of TI (MB). There were at least 4 active nests on the Kellettville Bridge; they were present from the second week of June through 7/12 (FM, JM).

It was nice to see several reports of Red-breasted Nuthatch this summer. One was heard 6/5 at Redclyffe (FM, JM); one was observed 6/9 at CF (RN); one was heard 7/4 near Guitonville (FM, JM); three were present 7/9 at CF, and two 7/30 at CF (CW); two were found 7/22 at BS, and one 7/28 at BS (ST, JeM). Winter Wren observations came from many separate locations: one was heard 6/4 near Lynch; two were reported 6/9 at CF (RN); one was identified 7/2 near TI (FM); four were heard 7/4 near Guitonville and one 7/4 near Nebraska (FM, JM); four were tallied 7/9 at CF, and three were seen together, one appearing very likely to be a juvenile, 7/30 at CF (CW); one was identified 7/22 at TO (ST). A Golden-crowned Kinglet, not a common breeder in Forest, was spotted 7/22 at BS, and another 7/28 at Beaver Meadows (JeM, ST). At least 2 were seen 7/30 at CF, high in white pines, with frequent calls; the observer thought it was possibly a family with adults feeding young (CW).

The 46 bluebird houses at Tionesta Lake and Kellettville fledged 30 Eastern Bluebirds, 36 Tree Swallows, 18 Black-capped Chickadees, and no House Wrens, a total of 84 young over the summer. Over the past nine years, the average number fledged is 103, so it wasn’t the best summer for nest boxes. All of the Tree Swallows fledged 6/14 and 6/28, apparently inhibiting Eastern Bluebird activity in June; the bluebirds fledged 5/17 (3), 6/3 (9), 6/28 (6), 7/30 (5), and 8/13 (7). Although there was some House Wren activity, no House Wren nests were completed in this Bluebird Trail (FM, JM).

There were several Veery reports from the many wooded areas in Forest, usually of 2 or 3 birds calling. Two Swainson’s Thrush were noted 6/9 at CF (RN) and one was heard calling 7/4 near Guitonville (FM, JM). Hermit Thrush were well reported from around the county; notable were a juvenile foraging along a trail 7/22 at BS (ST), and a juvenile which was banded 7/24 at USFS Study Site near MA (JL). Wood Thrush, not as abundant here as Hermit Thrush, were present near NE 6/16 (WD) and 6/17 (TR); two were noted 6/9 at CF (RN) and two 6/16 at BS (TR).

There were many reports of Ovenbirds during this period, including 12 tallied on a hike at BS 6/16 (TR), and a juvenile, which was caught and banded 7/24 at a USFS Research Station near MA (JL). Two Worm-eating Warblers were a nice find 7/22 in a wooded ravine at the Tionesta Outflow (ST). They are very uncommon here; this compiler will be eagerly looking for their return for another breeding season. Louisiana Waterthrushes were found 7/7 near NE (WD) and two were observed 7/22 at the Tionesta Outflow (ST). The only reports of Blue-winged Warbler were both of adult females, 7/23 and 7/24, from two different USFS Study Sites near MA (JL). Mourning Warblers were confirmed as breeding 7/18 when a singing male and 2 recently fledged young were identified at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL). Hooded Warblers were reported countywide throughout the period. The only Cerulean Warbler observation was 6/10 near Mayburg, when two were heard singing, a promising report for possible breeding (T & JK). A Magnolia Warbler nest was found 7/1 in a spruce tree near NE (WD); also, 7/30 at CF, an adult male was seen feeding one young bird out of the nest; the observer also heard more young in the area (CW). A mated pair of Blackburnian Warblers was seen capturing insects 7/1 near NE; observer noted that the nest appeared to be near the top of a large spruce tree (WD). Chestnut-sided Warblers were well-reported; notably, 6 juveniles and an adult male were banded 7/24 at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL). There were many sightings of Black-throated Blue Warblers throughout the period. A singing male Yellow-rumped Warbler was identified 6/5 at Red Brush (FM, JM). Two singing Prairie Warblers were found 6/4 at separate


locations near MA (FM, JM). Of the many Black-throated Green Warbler reports, two indicated confirmed breeding: an adult was seen carrying food 6/9 at CF (RN); another adult was seen carrying food 7/4 near Guitonville (FM, JM). The only Canada Warbler reports were from a USFS Study Site near MA: a juvenile was banded 7/18, and an adult female was banded 7/24 (JL).

Four Savannah Sparrows were noted 7/14 near NE, as well as 2 Grasshopper Sparrows (AL, IG, JL). These were the only reports for these two species during the summer. Field Sparrows were present at only two locations: 7/14 at NE (AL, IG, JL); also 7/12 and 7/30 at Tionesta Lake (FM, JM). Dark-eyed Juncos were well-reported. Thirteen were tallied 7/9 at CF, including one carrying food; seven were tallied 7/30 at CF, including one exhibiting agitated behavior (CW); a nest with 4 eggs was found 7/7 near NE - unfortunately, the nest was destroyed by a raccoon later that night (WD). Scarlet Tanagers were reported throughout the county, probably much more often heard than seen, because there were no descriptions of breeding activity.

A female Indigo Bunting was seen carrying food on 5/27, unusually early, at the ANF near TI; a possible family group was observed there 6/29 (FM). Three fledglings and an adult female were banded 7/23 at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL). Two Bobolinks were heard singing 6/4 near MA (FM, JM). Twenty Bobolinks were tallied 7/24 near NE (JL), and two or more were seen 7/28 at BS (JeM, ST). Although the July sightings were past the usual breeding dates, these were areas where Bobolinks were likely to have nested. All Eastern Meadowlark observations were from May: two 5/20 at NE (JL), two 5/12 at Red Brush (FM, JM), one 5/22 at BS (AG). As their nesting begins early, these birds were most likely on territory.

Purple Finches were found in several areas this breeding season. Two singing males were seen 6/5 at Redclyffe (FM, JM); a pair was spotted 7/22 in the Nebraska area (ST), an adult male was banded 7/23 at a USFS Study Site near MA (JL), one was heard 6/28 in the Ross Run area, and another was seen 7/17 in a back yard near TI (FM, JM). Notable is a lack of House Finch reports. They seem to be found only in the towns of TI and MA.

Totals for the breeding season are 18 possible, 39 probable, and 61 confirmed, for a total of 118 species, which is 7 more than the average of the previous 8 years. Observers: Flo McGuire, 609 Ponderosa Lane, Tionesta, PA 16353, (814) 755-3672, [email protected], Michael Bowen, Dave Brinker, William DelGrande, Collin Koers, Tom and Janet Kuehl, Alex Lamoreaux, Josh Lefever, Jeff McDonald (JeM), Jim McGuire (JM), Brad Nelson, Richard Nugent, Theo Rickert, Keely Roen, Emily Thomas, Shannon Thompson, Carole Winslow. Franklin County Locations: Antietam Creek (AC), Chambersburg (CH), Falling Spring (SP), Greencastle Reservoir (GR), Kriner Road (KR), Portico Rd. (PR), Shady Grove (SG), State Line (SL)

Two Mute Swans landed on GR 5/17 and stayed for two days, and re-appeared 6/4 and stayed for more than a month. This was the first time for any Mute Swans on GR. Wild Turkeys continue to increase in numbers, some very near or on residential sites. A Great Blue Heron Rookery along AC with at least 13 nests was very active in June. The Bald Eagles in the county fledged young near Greencastle (2) and Pleasant Hall (one). A Peregrine Falcon was spotted flying around warehouses in south CH 6/13, where one was sighted two years ago. This area could be a good nesting site. Two Dunlin were on GR 6/5. Lesser Yellowlegs and Least Sandpipers were at KR as late as 7/4. Barn Owls were active on farms south of Shady Grove and near St.Thomas through June. Barred Owls were observed and heard northwest of Greencastle near the Conocoheague Creek. Red-headed Woodpeckers came to feeders in SG, SL, and south of SG along McDowell Road in June and July.

Eastern Wood-Pewees, Great Crested Flycatchers, Willow Flycatchers, Least Flycatchers, and Eastern Phoebes were all active in the wooded areas of the county. Purple Martins took to the houses at GR this year with at least 15 very successful pairs.

Cerulean Warblers were active along the mountain ridge near Upper Strasburg and Hooded Warblers in Caledonia State Park. Louisiana Waterthrush weas sighted along streams west of Mercersburg and in Caledonia State Park. On 7/4, a Blue-winged Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, and Yellow-billed Cuckoo were observed on Bricker Road in the gamelands near Edenville.

Scarlet Tanagers were present in the Little Cove Valley and Caledonia areas all summer. Vesper Sparrows, Savannah Sparrows and

Grasshopper Sparrows were easy to find in many farmland areas of the county. Blue Grosbeaks were along the boundary road of Letterkenny Army Depot from near CH to Edenville-Fort McCord area and along Bricker Road in the gamelands. They were also spotted near Williamson several times. Dickcissels were active on Burkett Road and PR, and in fields near Roxbury. Observers: Dale Gearhart, P.O. Box 155, Shady Grove, PA 17256, (717) 860-5799, [email protected], Valerie Barnes, Butch Carmack, Dave Cooney, Carl Garner, Donna Hocker, Bob Keener, Bill Oyler. Fulton County No report. Compiler: Daniel Snell, PO Box 653, Shippensburg, PA 17257, (717) 530-8313, [email protected]. Greene County Locations: Claylick (CL), Enlow Fork (EF), East View (EV), Jackson Twp (JT), Last Chance Ranch (LCR), Ralph Bell Farm (RBF), Ryerson Station State Park (RSSP), Sycamore (SY).

Wild Turkey seemed to do well this year; a hen with 10 young went through the barnyard at SY 6/3, and on 7/2 two hens with at least 12 young of two different sizes went through the yard (JC). At least 28 Great Blue Heron nests were counted at the rookery behind the bank in Rogersville with at least 43 young visible (MH). Green Herons were found at Waynesburg Sportsman Club (JH) and at Hunting Hills (SS), but no young were noticed at either location.

An Osprey was found on Pollock Mill Road 7/24 (CDB, JW, RKB). In JT a Broad-winged Hawk was found on 6/25 (RL, BD). Red-tailed Hawk young were observed at EF 6/11 (MH), and four with at least two young were also noted at RBF (RKB). At RBF, American Kestrel young were found but were too big for banding this year (RKB).

Again this year Killdeer nested at EV bringing their young to the yard (MH), and Spotted Sandpiper was noted at Hunting Hills (SS). Yellow-billed Cuckoo was found at RSSP on 6/8 (JF), and Black-billed Cuckoo was found at Tintalgel Farm on 6/2 (AP).

Unusual was a daylight sighting of a young Great Horned Owl in Richhill Twp 6/2 which appeared fearless of humans (CN); later, a owl was reported raiding local chicken coops in the same area, possibly the same bird. In JT, 2 Barred Owl were found 6/5 (RL, BD). The feeders at CL provided a nice buffet for the local Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and their young; counting was difficult but a total of 16 were tallied at the feeders in July (L&RA). At RSSP 6/8 a Belted Kingfisher was seen along the creek (JF). On 6/21 a young Red-bellied Woodpecker at LCR was rescued from under the blueberry netting (MLP). Downy Woodpecker were observed feeding young on 6/2 at SY. Interestingly, during the second week of July a pair of Downy Woodpeckers fed at a hummingbird feeder there, and as of 8/15 they were still alongside the hummingbirds (JC). Hairy Woodpeckers were observed at Hunting Hills throughout the period (SS). It was apparently a good year for Northern Flickers with many young noted at Hunting Hills (SS); on 7/2 they were observed feeding young at EV (JC).

Eastern Wood-Pewee was found in JT 6/25 (RL, BD). Acadian Flycatcher and Willow Flycatcher were present at RSSP 6/8 (JF). In JT, a Least Flycatcher was found 6/8 (BD, RL) and again on 6/29 at RSSP (NB). At SY, fledging Eastern Phoebes left their nest 7/4 (JC), and at RY a family of 5 were observed on the roof of cottage porch 6/29 (NB). While conducting IBA point counts at EF White-eyed Vireo and Warbling Vireo were found (MH). Yellow-throated Vireo and Red-eyed Vireo were located at RSSP 6/8 (JF), and on 6/29 a Blue-headed Vireo was found there (NB). It was not uncommon this summer to hear Common Raven calling over at RBF (RKB). This year RBF hosted 22 pair Purple Martin with the last young leaving the nest 7/22. This year 44 young were banded at the Purple Martin Festival held each June at Mt. Morris (RKB). Tree Swallow numbers seemed to be down this summer with few reported, although 5 pairs were reported nesting at RBF (RKB). On a walk held by Ralph K. Bell Bird Club at Greene River Trail 7/19, a family of Cliff Swallows was observed (m.ob.). At RBF at least 30 pairs of Barn Swallow nested, but some of the young died due to extreme heat (RKB). At SY Carolina Wren young fledged 6/12, and at the same location House Wren young left the nest 6/10 (JC). On 7/3 at RBF a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher adult was noted feeding young in the yard (RKB). At LCR Eastern Bluebird were seen feeding young on power line 6/20 (MLP). On 6/29 a Veery was found at RSSP (NB). In JT on 6/25, 4 Gray Catbird and a Brown Thrasher were observed (RL, BD).


During an IBA survey at EF, Ovenbird, Black-and-white Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Hooded Warbler, American Redstart, Cerulean Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, and Yellow-breasted Chat were all noted (MH). At RSSP two Northern Parula and two Black-throated Green Warbler were found 6/29 (NB). On 6/8 a Chestnut-sided Warbler was found at the same location (JF).

A visit to RSSP 6/29 yielded 11 Chipping Sparrows near the cottages. The next day 4 Swamp Sparrows were found at a different location (NB). On 6/25, 4 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and an Indigo Bunting were noted in JT (RL, BD).

Few Bobolinks were reported this period, which could have been due to the early spring. On 6/2, 10 Red-winged Blackbird were noted at Tintalgel Farm (AP). An adult with 2 immature Orchard Orioles were found 6/30 at RSSP (NB). Baltimore Oriole young were observed at Greene River Trail 7/19 (m.ob.). Observers: Marjorie Howard, 149 Preachers Road, Waynesburg, PA 15370, (724) 852-3155, [email protected], Lyn & Ron Argent, Nadia Barkawi, C. David Bell, Ralph K. Bell , Jan Churney, Bill Deegan, James Fletcher, Ron Gutberlet, Jerry Howard, Kathy Kern, Rosanna Lane, Mary LaPlante , Colleen Nelson, Aiden Place, Sally Sisler, and Jerry Wolfe. Huntingdon County Locations: Brumbaugh’s Access (Lake Raystown) (BA), Huntingdon (HU), Juniata River (JR), Lower Trail at Alexandria (LT), Marklesburg waterfowl area (MAR), Old Crow wetland (OC), Stone Mt (SM), Stone Valley (SV), Trough Creek Valley (TCV), Tussey Mt (TM).

A Black Vulture was at a known nesting location on SM 7/8 (NB). A Least Bittern was found at MAR 6/6 (CY). The date iwas suggestive of breeding and the habitat there appropriate. The last confirmed nesting in the county (at approximately the same location) was during the first breeding bird atlas in the 1980s. Also found during the outing 6/6 was an American Coot, not known to nest in Huntingdon. A single coot was also at OC 7/15 (GG). A total of 41 Eastern Whip-poor-wills were counted on four Nightjar Surveys in Rothrock SF and adjacent SV, with most stops in northern Huntingdon and a few in Mifflin and Centre. Each survey consists of ten six-minute stops (GG, DB, DG). This year’s total was consistent with counts of the previous two years: 40 in 2010 and 41 in 2011. One Common Nighthawk was over HU 6/13 and 7/9 (DK); they were formerly regular but none were found the past few summers.

Alder Flycatchers, probably rare nesters in Huntingdon, may be under-reported given their late arrival and habitat preference at locations not often visited by birders after spring migration. On 6/6, 2 were at MAR and 3 at BA (CY). One was found in TCV 6/16 (GG). Purple Martins were noted migrating along ridge tops, with “many” seen on SM 7/8 and 17 counted on TM 7/22 (NB). On the 7/8 trip, 3-4 Winter Wrens were heard as well as numerous Black-throated Green Warblers, despite the deteriorating conditions of the hemlocks resulting from the adelgid infestation (NB).

For the 21st year, three Breeding Bird Surveys were conducted within Rothrock SF, a total of 150 point counts (GG, DG, NB). Most stops are in Huntingdon; some are in Centre and Mifflin. The 5 most abundant species are listed with 2012 counts followed by the 21-year average: Red-eyed Vireo 163 (avg. 192), Ovenbird 134 (147), Eastern Towhee 84 (81), Scarlet Tanager 68 (71), Wood Thrush 41 (47).

An unusual find on one of the Rothrock SF BBS routes was a singing Nashville Warbler 6/13, the first ever for the route. It was probably a late migrant; the nearest regular breeding, though sparse, occurs in Sproul SF, some 50 miles north on the Allegheny Plateau. Yellow-throated Warblers breed regularly at LT but are not often reported elsewhere in the county. This year, IG reported one 6/17 and 3 on 7/8 on the JR near HU. Along the 11-mile LT itself, NB counted 12 Yellow-throated Warblers on surveys conducted 6/3 and 6/13. On those same surveys, he tallied 24 Cerulean Warblers. Three Prairie Warblers and a Yellow-breasted Chat were singing in a pine barrens in TCV 6/16 (GG)

Bobolinks are rare nesters here, but early mowing probably disrupts nesting. They are usually present in early summer along Longhorn Rd in TCV in several large hay fields that are usually mowed before nesting is completed. This year, mowing had not yet occurred by 6/16 and numerous Bobolinks were still present. By 7/1, half the field area had been mowed but some were still present in the un-mowed portion. Many Grasshopper Sparrows were also there (GG). Observers: Greg Grove, 4343 McAlevys Fort Road, Petersburg, PA 16669, [email protected], Diane Bierly, Nick Bolgiano, Ian Gardner, Deb Grove, David Kyler, Chuck Yohn.

Indiana County Locations: Gipsy Strips (GS), Indiana (IN), Penn Run (PR), Shelocta (SH), Yellow Creek State Park (YC).

At least 23 Wood Ducks and 17 Mallards, including many young, were counted at YC 6/12 (MB, LC, TG, MH, DM, DW). A drake Ruddy Duck in alternate plumage lingered at YC through 7/8 (LC), providing only the second summer record but the first July record. A Common Loon, also in alternate plumage, was last spotted at YC 6/19 (LC, TG, MH, DM). A single Double-crested Cormorant appeared at YC 6/5 (LC, SD, TG, MH, GL, ML, KT), the only sighting this summer. A pair of American Kestrels, accompanied by 3 fledglings, was observed copulating near PR 6/16 (MH, RH).

By 7/3 (LC, TG, DM) Killdeer had already begun congregating on the mudflats at YC; the numbers built to 23 by 7/8 (LC). Five American Avocets were a nice surprise at YC 7/24 (LC, TG, DM); this is the largest group on record with the previous high of 3 spotted 5/15/2007 (BF, TF, MH, GL). First southward bound Greater Yellowlegs arrived at YC 7/17 (LC, TG) after the appearance of the first Lesser Yellowlegs 7/13 (LC). Arriving a little earlier, the first Solitary Sandpiper stopped at YC 6/26 (LC, MH, GL, ML). At least 6 Spotted Sandpipers were noted 7/21 (LC). Less than a mile from the compiler’s home near SH, a Long-billed Curlew was reported in a farm field 6/20 by ED, who called me (MH) from work 15 minutes later to alert me to its presence; however, when I arrived at the farm field within minutes after his call, a truck pulling a trailer, an ATV, and a tractor were right in the field where the curlew had been sighted. Hours of hiking and driving around produced no curlew. Ed had recently returned from a trip west where he had seen many Long-billed Curlews. No written details of the sighting have been provided. Least Sandpipers began arriving at YC 7/3 (LC, TG, DM) and were sighted on 10 dates through the end of the period with top count of 10 on 7/21 (LC). One to 2 Pectoral Sandpipers were noted on 4 days between 7/19 (LC) and 7/26 (LC). A single Short-billed Dowitcher was present 7/17 (LC, TG) through 7/21 (LC). An American Woodcock at Blue Spruce 7/11 (MA) comprised the entire report for this species.

Yellow-billed Cuckoo was noted only near PR 6/21 (BF, MH). Black-billed Cuckoos were listed at YC between 6/7 (BF, MH) and 6/19 (LC, TG, MH, DM) while 2 were at the GS 6/15 (MH, GL). Barred Owls were heard 7/31, both near BS (EP) and near SH (MH, RH). A Northern Saw-whet Owl tooting in the early morning near PR 6/21 (BF, MH) was unusual. Fish Crows were present throughout the season on the IUP campus with the best count of 5 on 6/18 (JT).

A territorial Blue-winged Warbler at YC was not reported after 6/5 (LC, SD, TG, MH, GL, ML, KT). Three Northern Parulas were present on the north shore at YC through 6/12 (LC, TG, DW); one pair was certainly nesting in one of the large spruce near the pavilion. Two Magnolia Warblers were counter-singing near the dam at YC 6/7 (BF, MH). YC’s Pine Warblers were still singing through 6/26 (LC, MH, GL, ML); one was also heard near SH 6/29 (MH). Single Prairie Warblers were listed only near Dayton 6/3 (MH, RH) and at the GS 6/15 (MH, GL). A three-mile stretch of the Ghost Town Trail yielded two singing Black-and-white Warblers 6/13 (BF, MH). June 7 (BF, MH) yielded both Ovenbirds and Louisiana Waterthrush feeding young at YC. A rather late singing Northern Waterthrush lingered 6/5 (LC, SD, TG, MH, GL, ML, KT) at YC.

Savannah Sparrows have been increasingly hard to find in the county with the only reports of one near SH 6/20 (MH) and 7 in the PR area 6/21 (BF, MH). Grasshopper Sparrow reports included 7 at the GS 6/15 (MH, GL), 2 near SH 6/20 (MH), and 2 near West Lebanon 6/28 (MC). The fields near West Lebanon harbored 4 Henslow’s Sparrows 6/14 (MH, RH) while only one could be located at the GS 6/15 (MH, GL). Three Dickcissels were first spotted near WL 6/13 (EF, MF); MC confirmed nesting with her photos of adults carrying food 6/28. Four Bobolinks near PR 6/21 (BF, MH) were the only ones noted. Observers: Margaret Higbee, 3119 Creekside Road, Indiana, PA 15701-7934, [email protected], Mary Assenat, Maria Bodenschatz, Lee Carnahan, Marcy Cunkelman, Sue Dickson, Ed Donley, Betsy Fetterman, Tom Fetterman, Evelyn Fowles, Mike Fowles, Tom Glover, Roger Higbee, Gloria Lamer, Melissa Little, Donna Meyer, Richard Nugent, Ed Patterson, John Taylor, Ken Truitt, Daniel Winstead. Jefferson County Locations: Brockway (BW), Clear Creek State Park (CC), Clarion River (CR), Dutch Mike Rd (DM), Fermantown Rd (FR), Filter Plant Rd (FP), Fordham Lake (FL), Kyle Lake (KL), Mahoning Shadow Trail (MT),


Punxsutawney (PX), Punxsutawney Airport (PA), US Rt 219 south of Brockway (R21), PA Rt 410 near Troutville (R41), PA Rt 830 just off I80 (R83), Rattlesnake Rd (RR), Richardsville (RV), Sandy Ridge Rd (SR), Saxon Hill Rd (SA), Zion-Patton Rd (ZP).

A lone Ruffed Grouse was reported on the MT 6/23 (TG). Clearly the season’s most unexpected bird, a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was found 7/23 on the CR (AF). Again the resident MT pair of Bald Eagles was observed throughout the months of June and July. They fledged one chick sometime between 7/3 and 7/6 (TG).Other raptors include a Cooper's Hawk and a Broad-winged Hawk 6/12 on the MT (TG). A Red-shouldered Hawk was also on the MT 6/16 (JD, TG). The MT held one American Kestrel 6/19 and 6/23. JM found two in RV on 7/23, and one on FR 7/30.

One Black-billed Cuckoo was found 6/16 on the MT (JD), and a Yellow-billed Cuckoo was in CC 7/5 (RN). The only owl reported was one Great Horned Owl 7/4 on RR (JM). Two Common Nighthawks were in BW 6/1 (KM). PX produced Ruby-throated Hummingbirds 6/9 and 7/21 (TG), and one was in RV 7/23 (TJ). Two Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were found in CC 7/5 (RN).

One Acadian Flycatcher was on the MT 6/15 (KD). Two Alder Flycatchers were on SR 7/21 (TG), and TJ had one in SGL 54 on 7/23. The MT produced a Willow Flycatcher on 6/16 (TG), and TJ found one on FR 7/30. One Least Flycatcher was in CC on 6/17 (TR). The only Yellow-throated Vireo was in CC 6/1 (JF). One Purple Martin was reported on R83 6/16 (JD), and KD noted one on R41 7/15. Two Red-breasted Nuthatches were found in the CC 7/5 (RN). The MT produced a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher on 6/15 (KD) and 2 on 6/27 (TG). The MT also produced three Eastern Bluebirds 6/16 (JD, TG). On 7/5 in CC, 5 Veery and 5 Hermit Thrushes were counted (RN). The only reported Northern Mockingbird was on ZP 6/15 (MM).

A Blue-winged Warbler was found on the MT 6/12 (TG), JD and TG also found one on the MT 6/16, and TJ came up with one in the SGL 54 on 7/23. A Nashville Warbler appeared in CC 6/1 (JF). And CC produced a Northern Parula 6/17 (TR). Yellow Warblers were common on the MT throughout the reporting period. Chestnut-sided Warbler was found on the MT on two occasions, one on 6/12 and two on 6/16 (TG), and TJ found 4 in SGL 54 on 7/23. A total of 20 Black-throated Blue Warblers were in CC 7/5 (RN). TG discovered 5 Black-throated Green Warblers on the MT 6/16. Two Blackburnian Warblers and 3 Black-and-white Warblers were on SGL 56 on 7/23 (TJ). One Worm-eating Warbler was found in CC 6/1 (JF). TJ reported a Kentucky in RR 7/30. RN reported 7 Hooded Warblers and 2 Canada Warblers in CC 7/5.

Three Vesper Sparrows were in SGL 54 on 7/23 (TJ) and two were in RR 7/30. TG came across Savannah Sparrows on SR on two occasions, 2 on 6/27 and 4 on 7/21. They were also at PA and SA 7/6 (TG), and 2 were at SGL 54 on 7/23 (TJ). SR produced Grasshopper Sparrow on three occasions, 2 on 6/23, one 6/27, and one 7/21 (TG), and TG found one on DM on 7/6, and TJ came up with one in RR on 7/30. Henslow's Sparrows were limited to SR, 3 on 6/23, 2 on 6/27, and 3 on 7/21 (TG). One of those observed on 7/23 was feeding young. Twenty Dark-eyed Juncos were noted 7/5 in CC (RN). Very exciting were 5 Dickcissels at SGL 54 on 7/23 (TJ). TG came across Bobolinks at two locations, one on the MT 6/12 and two on SR 6/23. The grassy areas Jefferson provided habitat for Eastern Meadowlarks; the birds were found on the MT, SA, and SR (TG), and two were on ZP 6/15 (MM). Observers: Thomas Glover, 210 Highland Ave. Punxsutawney, PA 15767, [email protected]. Katy Dinsmore, Jim Dunn, Al Fleckenstien, James Fletcher, Tom Jiamachello, Jackson Martini, Mark McConaughy, Kyle Meley, Richard Nugent, Theo Rickert. Juniata County No report. Compiler: Chad Kauffman, HCR 63 Box 65 Mifflintown, PA 17059, (717) 436-6465, [email protected]. Lackawanna County No report. Compiler: Jeff Greco, 3116 Township Woods Road, East Greenville, PA 18041, (484) 941-2667, [email protected].

Lancaster County Locations: Susquehanna River (SR), Susquehanna River, Conejohela Flats (SRCF), Middlecreek WMA (MCWMA), Safe Harbor Park (SHP), Conewago Wetlands Trail (CWT), Safe Harbor Park (SFH), Woods Edge Pond (WE).

Highlights this summer included Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Snowy Egret, Glossy Ibis, American Avocet, King Rail, summering Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Brown Creeper, breeding Dickcissels, and Blue Grosbeak.

Two Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were reported at MCWMA on eBird (SL). A late Ruddy Duck was seen 6/20, at WE (SS). A singing Northern Bobwhite of unknown provenance was heard near a home in Denver 6/10 (LG).

A Little Blue Heron first put in an appearance 7/18 when one was spotted on the CWT (LC) It was last reported 7/23 (DM, CBo). A Snowy Egret was in the company of some Great Egrets on the SR, from 7/1 until 7/29 (ML, JY). A Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was seen 7/29 at the Alcoa Marsh (JBo). A Glossy Ibis was present 7/22-29 at the CWT (GD, DM, AMa). Virginia Rail was reported 6/23 at MCWMA (RW). A King Rail was also reported at MCWMA 6/2 and could have been a breeder or a late migrant (KevL, KL).

Spring migration of shorebirds was last reported 6/11 with 6 Semipalmated Plovers, one Semipalmated Sandpiper, and one White-rumped Sandpiper. The fall migration started 7/1 when 7 Least Sandpipers were seen. Both of these reports were from the SRCF (BS). An American Avocet showed up 7/14 on the SRCF (EW, CC, ME). A second was reported flying into the CWT 7/22 (RK). Six Short-billed Dowitchers were present 7/14 at the SRCF (EW). A male Red-necked Phalarope was seen 7/29 on the SRCF (BS, TG, BC, EW). Caspian Tern was reported on 7/21, and Forster’s Tern on 7/3 (BS), with a total of 52 reported 7/29 on the SRCF (BS, TG, BC, EW, ME, AM).

A Eurasian Collared-Dove was seen on Slate Hill Road, in Peach Bottom (BS). A rather interesting observation was made on 7/14, when it appeared that a Ruby-throated Hummingbird was feeding on a suet cake (BC). A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was present 7/1-4 at feeders, no location given (DW). Two Red-headed Woodpeckers were seen at a farm outside of Elizabethtown 7/19 (KevL). Brown Creeper was heard singing at SHP from 6/13-16 (SS). Three Red-breasted Nuthatches were recorded on Reservoir Road 6/17-7/31 (SS), possibly breeders.

Once again there were several reports of singing Prothonotary Warblers in Lancaster. Blue Grosbeaks were confirmed breeding at MCWMA, which is fairly far north for them (ML). A pair of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks visited a feeder in Gap for a few days around 7/10, however no young were seen this year (CC). There were an exceptional number of reports of Dickcissels this year, with confirmed breeding at MCWMA 6/25 (ML, JS). Observers: Pamela Fisher, 761 Willow Lane, Gap, PA 17527, [email protected], Tom Amico (TA), Chris Bortz (CBo), Justin Bosler (JBo), Bruce Carl (BC), Lou Carpenter, Chuck Chalfant, Gordon Dimmig, Mike Epler, Tom Garner, Loretta Gehman, Shawn Loewen, Meredith Lombard, Keith Lutz (KL), Kevin Lutz (KevL), Annette Mathes (AMa), Andy McGann (AM), David McNaughton, Bob Schutsky, John Shenk, Stan Stahl, Eric Witmer, Richard Wolf, David Wright, Joe Yoder. Lawrence County No report. Compiler: Cory DeStein, 419 Edison Street, West Mifflin, PA 15122, (412) 953-2667, [email protected]. Lebanon County Locations: Fort Indiantown Gap (FIG), Greater Lebanon Refuse Authority (GLRA), Iron Valley Drive (IVD), Kreider Farm Pond on Mount Pleasant Rd (KP), Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area (MC), Memorial Lake State Park (MLSP), Quittapahilla Wetlands Preserve (QW), Reistville and Prescott Road Ponds (RPP), Spring Hill Acres (SHA), SGL 211, Swatara State Park (SSP)

Highlights this summer were early records of five shorebird species, the banding of many Barn Owl chicks, and a first county breeding pair of Summer Tanagers. An unusual visitor to RPP was a Long-tailed Duck, which showed at least some flight ability between the ponds 6/1-8 (TC, BH


fide AL). A pair of Ruddy Ducks was noted at MLSP 6/17 (EB) and continued through 6/19 (RCM). Middle Creek is a good place to find “wild” Ring-necked Pheasants. Three groups of hens with chicks were seen in the area of stop #3 MC 7/26 (WH). A Common Loon made for an unusual June record MLSP 6/17-21 (MC, EB, JDu). A very rare and possible first June record for American Bittern was established with one calling near IVD 6/14-17 (JF). Wading birds observed at MC included a Great Egret 6/15 (AH) and a Black-crowned Night -Heron 6/30 (PM). A Broad-winged Hawk was reported from the Mount Gretna Rail Trail 6/15 (MM), and also at SHA 7/5-22 (JH, RCM, TJ, MLa, AW). A King Rail, first heard calling in the Lancaster portion of MC during a nightjar survey 6/2 (KL, KLu), crossed over into Lebanon for RCM to hear 6/4. This is a new species for the county.

A trio of new early dates were established with the observation of a Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, and 2 Least Sandpipers at KP 7/1 (RCM). A Solitary Sandpiper, also at KP, provided a new early date 7/4 (RCM). The growing corn crop obscured the view of KP after early July, but some good shorebird habitat developed at QW. Two Pectoral Sandpipers were there 7/19 (KB, TB). Early by nearly two months were two breeding plumage Dunlin MC 7/18 (EB).

Observations of the continuing Eurasian Collared-Dove were made in the Fontana area through 7/22 (TJ, MLa, AW). Lebanon is fortunate to have a great population of breeding Barn Owls. A total of 17 Barn Owl chicks were banded from three county sites 6/4 (DMu, NK, TK, RW). Members of the Quittapahilla Adubon observed the banding of six Barn Owl chicks from a single nest box at GLRA 6/20 (DM, DMu, m.ob.). Two Eastern Screech-Owls were calling along Tomstown Rd FIG 6/28 (TB). An Eastern Screech-Owl and a Barred Owl were calling along Tomstown Rd 7/7 (HM). Many birders travelled to hear the continuing Chuck-will’s-widow. He was heard mornings and evenings along Tomstown Road at FIG through 7/21 (GM, m.ob.). The Cold Springs and Tomstown Road areas of FIG also treated many birders to singing Eastern Whip-poor-wills during the period. Fifteen were heard calling along the two roads before daylight 6/28 (TB), which tied the county high count. Ten Eastern Whip-poor-wills were calling at dusk in the Goldmine area of SGL 211 6/14 (TB, JD). This included a rather agitated pair providing great views on the lane leading back to a food plot. A Yellow-throated Vireo was singing at SHA 7/5 (JH, RCM).

The restricted access areas of FIG produced a Golden-winged Warbler 6/7 (JD, DM). The Golden-winged Warbler, along with the continuing Lawrence’s Warbler was photographed at FIG 6/11 (JD, DM, TB). A Nashville Warbler was singing in the Box Car Rocks area of SGL 211 on 6/8 (TB). A singing Kentucky Warbler was a good find during a Friends of Swatara State Park walk SSP 6/16 (DM, BR). A visit by JD early 6/17 included a very close encounter with a startled bear. Excellent photos were obtained of the warbler, but none of the departing bear. The Kentucky Warbler was still singing for TB 6/18. A Canada Warbler was singing along Cold Springs Rd in SGL 211 on 6/28 (TB). A Yellow-breasted Chat was singing before daylight along Cold Springs Rd, FIG 6/28 (TB).

A Vesper Sparrow was reported from KP 7/10 (DH). A male Blue Grosbeak was observed at GLRA 6/20 (DM, DMu, m.ob.). A male Blue Grosbeak was singing during the Regal Fritillary Butterfly tours at FIG 7/6-7 (DM, CH, PM). Bobolinks were observed in the grassy area along the south side of MLSP 6/17 (MC) and 6/21 (JDu). A pair of Dickcissels spent much of the summer just on the Lancaster side of stop #3 at MC, which

marks the boundary between counties. But a Dickcissel was observed on the Lebanon side of stop #3 on 7/9 (BR). Observers: Tim Becker, 10283 Jonestown Road, Grantville, Pa, 17028, [email protected], Ed Bernot, Chuck Berthoud, Steve Brenner, Lou Carpenter, Tyler Coleman, Mary Croomer, Amy Davis, Jonathan DeBalko (JDe), Jarrod Derr, Michael Dreibelbis, James Dunn (JDu), Jim Fiorentino, Tom Garner, Vern Gauthier, Dennis Glew, Al Guarente, Gordon Hassel, Fritz Heilman, Jonathan Heller, Brad Hoffman, Deuane Hoffman, Walt Honsinger, Anne Hurst, Corey Husic, Tom Johnson, Chad Kauffman, Natalie Kita, Tim Kita, Alex Lamoreaux, Michael Lanzone (MLa), Wayne Laubscher, Merideth Lombard (MLo), Keith Lutz, Kevin Lutz (KLu), Geoff Malosh, Michael Mayer, Dave McNaughton, Holly Merker, Randy C. Miller, Peter Montgomery, Dan Mummert (DMu), Barbara Ritzheimer, Stan Stahl, Andrew Weber, Richard Wiltraut. Lehigh County

Reports were a bit sparse in Lehigh this season. Mean temperatures (measured from Allentown) for June and July were roughly 4.1°F above the 30-year norm, while precipitation was about an inch below norm. It was a dry summer; water levels were low, and there were no significant weather events this season. A total of 116 species were reported this season.

Despite a paucity of Snow Geese in northwestern Lehigh over the recent winter and spring, two Snows remained in Heidelberg through at least 7/21 (FD, CHn). It is presumed that these birds spent the summer here due to the combined influences of injury and pair fidelity. In Upper Macungie, a Great Blue Heron rookery continued from the previous period (PS). Great Blue Herons are seen frequently around the county, but there have been no recent confirmed nest sites until this year.

The only report of Bald Eagle was an adult soaring over Slatington 7/11 (BE). Sharp-shinned Hawk was present regularly at WPP from mid-June to early July (ES), and Broad-winged Hawk was present at locations along the Blue Mountain at the northern end of the county, particularly around Lehigh Gap Nature Center (CH); both species are presumed “possible” breeders. Red-shouldered Hawk was notable at New Tripoli 7/23 (FD). At SGL 205 in Lowhill, American Kestrel nest boxes were checked 6/8, then again on the last day of the month (TK bander, CH additional observer). On 6/8, a very nice total of 12 adults and 34 young were found; the follow up run on 6/30 resulted in 9 adults and 24 chicks. The work done to band and document this species locally is certainly to be applauded as this species continues to decline within the extended region. Peregrine Falcons nested at Allentown's 8th Street Bridge once again this year; it was the fourth consecutive year this particular nest site has been used. The 2012 brood was banded by 5/25; the bander could not be certain of gender, but felt that all three chicks were males (AM). On 6/13, both parents and two fledglings were reported near the nest site; one parent was attendant while two chicks awkwardly tested their wings from the roof of a nearby building. The other parent remained perched near the nest (TW). By 6/16, all three fledges were reported to be off the nest and learning how to be young Peregrines (BH). A bit to the east of the Allentown nest site, Peregrines were noted three times in June along the Lehigh River near Fountain Hill in Salisbury (ES). While the birds found here may have been from the Allentown nest site, it seems equally possible they could have hailed from a recently discovered (TK) nest site a bit further down-river near the Sands Casino complex in Northampton. In either case, it seems that this species has taken hold here in the Lehigh Valley. Further north and away from the river, a Peregrine was noted 7/21 in North Whitehall (BH).

Here follows story of an ill-fated Monk Parakeet nest in Allentown this season. By the first week of June, word began to spread that a pair of Monk Parakeets were being seen in and around a large nest they had built on a utility pole, directly below a transformer in west Alentown (fide DA). While neither officially “countable”, nor currently included on the official list of Pennsylvania's flighted fauna, the report brought out many folks who were curious to see parakeets nesting. Nesting is unprecedented in the county, and apparently within the greater region as well. The only known previous record of the species in Lehigh was of one bird 7/2/2008 on the other side of the city (PS). These birds had many visitors and ultimately may have attracted a little too much attention for their own good. In a 6/28 news release, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) announced that the nest had been removed, stating that it presented the risk of causing a “short circuit or power outage” in the area. The release also stated that, due to its feeding habits, Monk Parakeets pose a threat to farms and orchards. The first statement is almost certainly true; the latter is certainly true somewhere, if not in west Allentown in the year 2012. Despite informed speculation that there were most likely young birds within the nest at the time it was destroyed, it remains unknown if breeding was successful, and the actual

S.A. Spring Hill Acres is a residential area characterized by mature deciduous woodlands and widely spaced homes. Jonathan Heller had been hearing an unusual song during his morning runs near home in SHA, perhaps as early as the first week of June. He discovered the source to be a first year male Summer Tanager 7/4 (JH). A female Summer Tanager was observed near the same location along Aspen Lane 7/6 (RCM) and the male was observed carrying a large insect 7/6 (TB). An exciting discovery 7/7 was a nest containing at least two young, being fed by the male (TG, JH, RCM, m.ob.). Photos were obtained of both the first year male and the very reddish female 7/8 (AL). This represents a first breeding record for Lebanon, and only the second overall record. The first county record of Summer Tanager was in SGL 225 on 9/25/1998 (GH). The chicks were last seen, and videoed in the nest 7/10 (MLo). The nestlings may have successfully fledged, but there is also a strong possibility that they were prey to a Broad-winged Hawk frequenting the area. The male made a brief visit to the nest tree 7/12 (CB). The Summer Tanagers provided great viewing opportunities for many birders. The last observation was of one heard calling close to the nest location 7/15 (AD).


fate of any of the birds was not announced beyond stating that they were “removed”. History has certainly taught us that the presence of invasive species, even the fun and endearing ones that you want to root for, should never be taken lightly. It will be very interesting to see if Monk Parakeets reappear here in the future.

In Allentown, Common Nighthawk was recorded 6/9 and 7/15 (KR, EK). There were three separate reports of Acadian Flycatcher, all on 6/22 and 6/23 (FD, TW, eBird), with none before or after. The only Alder Flycatcher for the county was seen 6/11 at TNP (FD). There were some interesting interactions among species on 6/29 at Walking Purchase Park in Salisbury: an Eastern Kingbird was seen driving away a Sharp-shinned Hawk; the hawk, in turn, chased off a Great Horned Owl (ES). Fairly uncommon in the county, White-eyed Vireo (5) was noted 6/8 at SGL 205 (TK); two more were found at the same game lands 6/20 (CH). The Purple Martin colony in Slatedale hosted at least 20 pairs this year (m.obs.). Since proof of pure Carolina Chickadee is impossible to obtain here short of DNA testing, anecdotal evidence is our best guide. That said, birds singing the Carolina song were reported from Allentown 6/11 (TB) and 6/23 (JH). Red-breasted Nuthatch was found in west Allentown in June and July and continues to be a year-round resident and presumed breeder (FD, BE, BCM). A leucistic American Robin was an interesting anomaly 6/26 at North Whitehall (ES), as was a totally bald-headed Northern Cardinal at Emmaus 6/21 (TW). Observers: Bill Etter (209 E. South St, Slatington PA, 18080, [email protected], Dan Altif, Tim Becker, Mark Boyd, Frank Dickman, Bob Hoopes, Jeff Hopkins, Chris Hugosson (Chn), Corey Husic, Tim Kita, Ed Komito, Barbara Malt (BCM), Art McMorris, Bernie and Pauline Morris, Ken Reiker, Peter Saenger, Ed Sinkler, Todd Watkins. Luzerne County Locations: Harveys Lake (HL), Sweet Valley (SV), Susquehanna River (SR), Wilkes-Barre (WB)

Summer reports were few and far between for Luzerne, but a few birds of note were sighted. Uncommon for the season, a single Common Loon in full breeding plumage was at HL 6/9 (JS). No evidence of breeding has been reported, however Great Egrets seem to have become regular summer visitors to the SR in Luzerne. Two Great Egrets were reported 7/19 (DF) near the dike in Forty Fort along the SR.

Only two Common Nighthawks were reported 7/19 (DF) flying over a property in SV. Most reliably seen or heard in the southeast region of the county, an Eastern Whip-poor-will calling in SV 7/16 (DF) was uncommon. A Great-Horned Owl was seen in broad daylight on the ground of a farm field in SV 7/16 (DF). It appeared to be healthy and unharmed as it lit to a limb of a nearby tree upon approach. As caterpillar populations become abundant, Black-Billed Cuckoos make their way to Luzerne. One Black-Billed Cuckoo, first heard and sighted on 7/4 (DF), was heard calling regularly from a property in Luzerne throughout July. Lastly, an anomaly here, a Monk Parakeet nest in WB was reported 7/7 (JSt). Observers: David Fisher, 222 North Mountain Road, Sweet Valley, PA 18656, (570) 362-8727, [email protected], Jim Shoemaker, Jeff Stratford (JSt). Lycoming County Locations: Pine Creek (PC), Susquehanna River (SR), Rose Valley Lake (RVL).

A Common Loon was observed twice at RVL during the season: an immature bird 7/6 and again 7/14 (NF). Also there 7/6, a Ring-necked Duck and 2 Hooded Merganser were observed after thundershowers (NF). Post-breeding dispersal of wading birds was documented with a Great Egret 7/25 along PC, north of Rte. 220 (DR). With a renewed attention to document harriers as part of Hawk Mountain’s Farmland Raptor Project, a Northern Harrier was observed in Cogan House Twp. clasping a vole (eBird–BR, DF). It then dropped down into a cattail marsh, strongly suggesting there was a nest. Another was seen nearby the next day. An adult female Merlin was found on the ground at Henry Short Park, Loyalsock Twp. within the tennis courts, photographed by Bobbie Helper 7/21. The photo, sent to SP, showed a bedraggled bird, but no obvious injuries. A search of the area several days later did not find the bird (alive or dead). Intriguingly, this was within a few blocks of the recently-fledged Merlins found (almost to the day) last year. No evidence of local nesting

was observed this year. While shorebird habitat is very limited in Lycoming, lower water this

season provided opportunities. A Solitary Sandpiper at Dam Run Rd/Moore Rd Marcellus gas impoundment 7/7 was notable (eBird –SB). Likely breeding birds, Spotted Sandpiper continued along the larger rivers; 2 were seen on PC 7/21 while canoeing up the creek (eBird–SB), and 11 were seen on the SR between Montoursville and Muncy 7/21 (NF). A Greater Yellowlegs was along the SR between Montoursville and Muncy 7/21 and more notably for the county, 5 Sanderling were below the Williamsport Dam, SR, on 7/20 (NF).

Common Nighthawk has become increasingly rare, except in migration, so the observation of one 6/5 in Williamsport (NF) was encouraging. Eastern Whip-poor-will is localized and apparently declining, so the reports in the hills above PC north of Waterville 7/8 were welcome (eBird–MT, SB).

Three Bank Swallows were found on the SR between Montoursville to Muncy 7/21 (NF). Two Horned Larks were seen 6/2 near Amish farms in Washington Twp. (NF). Warbling Vireo was found in traditional habitat along PC at Slate Run 6/19 (KR) and Yellow-throated Vireo was seen along 2.5 miles out Skyline Drive (eBird–EC). A Red-breasted Nuthatch was found 6/3 near Picture Rocks (WE).

A Cerulean Warbler was detected along the Bob Weber Trail along PC 7/23 (eBird–MS). A Northern Parula was found 6/3 near Picture Rocks (WE), and a Prairie Warbler was found along Rose Valley Road 6/14 (NF). Yellow-rumped Warbler was found along the Katy Jane Trail of Rider Park 7/8 (ML). Blue-winged Warbler remains a very scarce bird in the county, so 2 at Little Pine SP Lake Shore Loop Trail 6/21 (eBird–NS) and one 6/3 in the Williamsport Water Authority (NF) were interesting. No Golden-winged Warblers were seen, however. Increasingly scarce or at least overlooked, a Vesper Sparrow was noted in Mifflin Twp. 6/7 (NF). Scarce this year, a Pine Siskin was calling frequently 6/8 in SGL 75 (NF). Observers: Dan Brauning, 1920 Inverness Rd, Montoursville, PA 17754, (570) 433-0309, [email protected], Steve Brenner, Ed Clark, Dan Doyle, Wes Egli, Dave Ferry, Dianne Franco, Nate Fronk, Meredith Lombard, Steve Pinkerton, Dave Rockey, Bob Ross, Matthew Schenck, Melanie Torres. McKean County Locations: Redbridge (RBR), Valley Crossroads (VAC), Colombia Hill (CoH), Hamlin Lake (HL), Marshburg (Mar), Klondike (Klon), Marilla Reservoir (M Res.), Allegheny National Forest (A.N.F.).

McKean hosted some nice birds this summer. One of the most interesting was Eastern Whip-poor-will. On 6/8, Whips were reported singing at two or three locations on SGL 62 (JD, JF,LF, BF, DF), and on 6/20, a Whip-poor-will was heard singing just north of Bradford on McKune Road (KD). A close relative, Common Nighthawk was observed 6/15 in Bradford (JF). Common Nighthawks were recorded as breeders during the 2nd PBBA, but have become rare in the county since the atlas was conducted. Another was heard 6/24 in a different area of Bradford (JF).

Merlin again bred in the county with an adult male found 6/17 in Bradford (JF), followed by a pair feeding one fledgling 7/28 (JF, LF, DF, BF). Another pair nested in a Park in Kane and successfully fledged 2 young (RH, MH).

Shorebird migration began in McKean 7/20. Two Semipalmated Plover, 7 Killdeer, 2 Spotted Sandpiper, 4 Semipalmated Sandpiper, 11 Least Sandpiper, and 3 Pectoral Sandpiper were observed at RBR (JF). A Double-crested Cormorant was also observed there the same day. Severe weather 7/26-27 caused a small fallout of shorebirds at the Bradford sewage treatment ponds. This included 2 Semipalmated Plover, 23 Killdeer, 5 Spotted Sandpiper, 3 Solitary Sandpiper , a Greater Yellowlegs, 4 Semipalmated Sandpiper, 3 Least Sandpiper, 2 White-rumped Sandpiper, a Baird's Sandpiper, 7 Pectoral Sandpiper, a Stilt Sandpiper, and a Short-billed Dowitcher recorded 7/27 (JF, JFu). American Woodcock seemed to be everywhere during the summer with many birds very cooperative, including single bird was observed in Mt. Alton at close distance 6/19 (LF, JF).

Ring-billed Gulls are not very uncommon in the summer in McKean, but a persistent begging gull in Smethport 7/6, even made the local paper (JD). An AHBC Field Trip 7/22 netted 43 birds. A very cooperative Black-billed Cuckoo put on a fanned tail display for the group (JL, CG, MH, RH, JF, LF). A late Blackpoll Warbler was observed in Bradford 6/11 (JF). Observers: John Fedak, 26 Race Street, Bradford, PA 16701, (814) 366-2500, [email protected], Allegheny Highlands Bird Club (AHBC), Lisa


Chapman, Ken Dunkerly, John Dzmyan, Holly Dzmyan, Lisa Fedak, Danny Fedak, Bailey Fedak, Jared Fuera (JFu), Chris Grecco, Marcy Holland, Rocky Holland, Kathy Johnson, Mark Johnson, Joe Lanich. Mercer County Locations: Garret Road (GR), Pennsy Swamp (PS), Shenango R. Res (SRR), Shenango Wildlife Area Propagation Ponds (SWAPP), State Gamelands 130 (SGL130), Williamson Road (WR).

Small numbers of Double-crested Cormorant were found at SRR through the period. Six Great Egret were counted there 7/28 (NT) and 3 adult and 2 juvenile Black-crowned night Heron were found at SWAPP 7/19 (NT, ST). A Broad-winged Hawk was found at SGL130 on 7/7 (NT) and both Sora and Common Gallinule were found at PS 6/2 (NT).

Below normal rainfall in May and June resulted in low water levels at SRR. By early July the lake had dropped to 1.75’ below summer pool which created extensive habitat for shore birds at West River Road. Shore bird activity there was exceptional with the following species noted: Semipalmated Plover 7/28 (NT, STh), Greater Yellowlegs 7/28 (NT, STh), Lesser Yellowlegs 7/6 (NT), Solitary Sandpiper 7/8 (SS), Ruddy Turnstone 7/26 (STh), Semipalmated Sandpiper 7/12 (NT), Least Sandpiper 7/6 (NT), Stilt Sandpiper 7/27 (GM), Pectoral Sandpiper 7/19, with an impressive high count of 70+ on 7/28 (NT), and Short-billed Dowitcher 7/12 (NT). Three Caspian Tern were found at SRR 7/26 (STh).

Both Yellow and Black-billed Cuckoo were more common at various location within the county, possibly due to the large number of webworms (MM, NT). Eastern Screech-Owl was heard from WR 7/29 (NT, ST). Red-headed Woodpecker successfully fledged young at E. Zahnizer Road and at Buhl Park (NT, SS). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was confirmed breeding at SGL130 (NT).

Alder Flycatcher was heard at PS 6/2 (NT) and at Cannery Road 6/8 (SS). A Brown Creeper was heard singing along Sandy Creek at SGL130 on 6/16 (NT, ST). Up to 10 Marsh Wrens were singing at PS 6/2 (NT). Unexpected was a Hermit Thrush singing at SGL130 on 6/16 (NT, ST).

Seven species of warblers were reported with the majority found at SGL130, all of which were listed as possible breeders. The highlights from that area include Magnolia, Blackburnian, Cerulean, and Black-and-white Warbler, Louisiana and Northern Waterthrush, and Mourning and Kentucky Warbler. Prothonotary Warbler was found at several locations at SRR and noted as a probable breeder (NT).

Vesper Sparrow was at GR 6/8 (SS), and Grasshopper and Henslow’s Sparrow were heard at SR 6/2 where they have been found in previous years (NT). Dark-eyed Juncos were heard at SGL130 on 7/7 (NT). The highlight of the season was 4 Dickcissel at GR 6/2-7/14. Two male, one female and one immature bird were noted, but no breeding activity was reported (SS). A pair of Purple Finch visited a feeder on WR into July (NT). Observers: Neil Troyer, 876 Williamson Road, Mercer, PA 16137, Geoff Malosh, Marty McKay, Steve Sanford, Shannon Thompson (STh), Ruth Troyer, Samuel Troyer. Mifflin County Locations: Back Mt. Rd. in Big Valley (BMR), Big Valley (BV), Juniata River (JR), Lewistown (LT), Rothrock SF (RSF).

Two Green Herons were on the JR at LT 6/11 (RH). A rare breeder in Mifflin, two Least Flycatchers were tallied on a BBS route in RSF 6/8 (DG, GG). Another uncommon breeder, a Yellow-throated Vireo was at BMR 7/4 (AL, IG).

Canada Warblers were found on Jack’s Mt 6/24 (JD) and two in RSF 7/21 (MD). A Yellow-breasted Chat was at Taylor Mill 6/20 (JZ). Along Kanagy Rd in BV, grassland sparrows 7/4 included one Vesper, 6 Savannah, and 2 Grasshopper Sparrows (IG, AL) and JZ noted one each Vesper (7/22) and Grasshopper (6/12) on his BV farm. Observers: Greg Grove, 4343 McAlevys Fort Road, Petersburg PA 16669, [email protected], Mike Dreibelbis, Jim Dunn, Ian Gardner, Deb Grove, Robert Hosler, Alex Lamoreaux, Jay Zook. Monroe County Locations: Blakeslee Farm (BF), Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DWGNRA), East Stroudsburg (ES).

Overall the breeding season was characterized by high temperatures and low rainfall. Three female or juvenile Hooded Mergansers were found 6/7 at the swamp at DWGNRA headquarters near Bushkill (RW), a known nesting location for this species.

Eight Purple Martins were perched on a wire at BF in Cherry Valley 7/23 (RW). The only known breeding site for this species in the county remains in ES along the Brodhead Creek. A total of 103 species were recorded for the period at Skytop, including a male Golden-winged Warbler 6/5 that remained on territory through the end of July (RK). Singing Yellow-throated Warblers were found on the Brodhead Creek below Canadensis 6/8 and near Shawnee along the Delaware River 6/17 (RW).

Two singing Grasshopper Sparrows were located at BF 7/17 (RW). Representing a likely first county record was the male Blue Grosbeak also found at BF 7/22 (DA). Following up on this sighting at BF, a female Blue Grosbeak was found with the male and both were photographed 7/23 (RW). The closest nesting area to BF for Blue Grosbeak is in Northampton County about eight miles south on the other side of the Kittatinny Ridge (RW). At least 40 Bobolinks were found in the hay fields at BF 7/17, with that number building to at least 55 by 7/28 (RW). Ten Eastern Meadowlarks were counted at BF 7/17 and at least 10 Orchard Orioles were observed flying into the BF hay fields and foraging 7/28 (RW). BF, a working farm run by the Blakeslee family and owned by The Nature Conservancy, provides critical grassland habitat and other habitats for the previously listed species and others. Kudos to RW for his close monitoring, management recommendations, and documentation of the bird life at this site. Observers: Brian Hardiman, Monroe County Environmental Education Center, 8050 Running Valley Rd, Stroudsburg, PA 18360, (570) 629-3061, [email protected], Dan Altif, Rick Koval, Rick Wiltraut. Montgomery County Locations: Deep Creek and Knight Lake Area- Green Lane Park (DCKL), Green Lane Reservoir-IBA, Green Lane Park (GLR), Norristown Farm Park (NFP), Upper Hanover Twp.-Dickcissel Site (NHT), Unami Creek-IBA (UCV)

The breeding bird chart shows 77 confirmed, 14 probable and 14 possible, for a total of 105 species. Average temperatures were about normal and rainfall below normal, but water levels remained high enough that no significant shorebird activity occurred at Green Lane Reservoir. Almost all data presented here came from eBird. The entries in eBird do not provide satisfactory amounts of data for the Unami Creek Valley, the largest woodland area left in the region, or the remaining farmlands. George Franchois provided assistance with evaluating reports.

A Snow Goose was first reported at Butter Valley Golf Course 6/12 (PA) and 2 were said to be summering there in July (JG). Two Mute Swans were at Royersford 6/1 (WS), near Gladwyne 6/1 (SS), and Sassamansville 7/6 (MA, PA). A rare summer Blue-winged Teal in heavy molt was first noted 7/15-16 at DCKL (AM, JM ph.) and was still there 7/31 (GF). Unexpected in summer, 2 Hooded Mergansers in female or first year male plumage were in the UCV 6/20 (GF). Although Common Merganser has been breeding in the GLR area in the past, none were reported there until 7/7 (GF), with a high count of 10 at adjacent DCKL 7/25 (PB). Two were at the Schuylkill River near Port Kennedy 6/2 (BHe), and 7 were at Norristown 7/21 (MR). The only eBird Ring-necked Pheasant entry was from UHT, where birds are released to be hunted (m.ob.). A local farmer advised me he hasn’t seen any sign of breeding there in many years. Wild Turkey was noted in eBird at five sites, with the high counts being 14 at Hoffmansville 7/13 (PA) and 13 at Pennypack Environmental Restoration Trust 7/14 (AMn). A late spring adult Common Loon was at Flat Rock Park, Gladwyne 6/6 (SS). The high counts for Double-crested Cormorant were 8 at GLR 6/2 (SG) and 7 at Norristown 7/31 (BHe). A Great Egret was at GLR 6/8 (GF), and none were noted again until 7/13 (MA, PA). They were there through Jul, with the high count of 6 7/29 (JL). Surprisingly, there were no other sites noted in eBird. Two juv. Little Blue Herons were reported 7/8 at DCKL (KR, TW), and 3 were there 7/9 (GF). On 7/10, one was found dead and suspected of being killed by a snapping turtle (LH). The other two continued through at least 7/16 (m.ob.). On 7/29, one was at nearby GLR (PT) and was still there 7/31 (GF). Green Heron was widely reported from 21 sites (m.ob.). A Black-crowned Night-Heron was at GLR 7/3 and 7/15 (GF), and Douglass Twp. 7/18 (MA). A Plegadis ibis flew by White’s Mill, Salford Twp. 6/2 (KR).

As usual, single Ospreys were reported in both months from at least five sites on seven dates, with a gap in reports between 6/13 and 7/6 (m.ob.). There are no known nests in the county. Bald Eagle nested near GLR and produced 2 young as did the only other reported nest in Skippack


Twp (JMo). At least one of the Red-shouldered Hawks noted in spring at Four Mills Nature Preserve continued to be reported in both months (JSt). Two interacting over the UCV 7/25 may have also been indicative of breeding nearby (GF). The only eBird entry for Broad-winged Hawk was at UCV 6/1 (GF) and reflects the decline of this species locally. American Kestrel was only reported in eBird from seven sites (m.ob.). The poor availability of shorebird habitat resulted in very few shorebird reports. One Solitary Sandpiper 7/10-12 (AG, GF, SG) and a high of 11 Least Sandpipers 7/10 (AG) show the lack of numbers and variety at GLR. Spotted Sandpiper was reported throughout the period, with reports from eight sites (m.ob.). Two juv. with one adult were at DCKL 7/16 (AM, JM), a likely breeding site. One American Woodcock at Douglass Twp. 7/2 (PA) was the only report. Single returning Ring-billed Gulls were first reported 7/3 at GLR (GF) and later at an additional three other sites. The only non-singular count was only 7 at Willow Grove Park Mall 7/30 (JSh). A Forster’s Tern was at GLR 6/9 for the only tern report (GF). Amazingly, no cuckoos were reported in eBird. A Barn Owl nest with six eggs was found 6/24, indicating the nest box program may be helping this formerly common species in our area (fide DF). Two Barred Owls were at Evansburg State Park for the only report (SF).

Acadian Flycatcher was at Lorrimer Park (LW), the UCV (GF, KR), Rolling Hill Park (SS), Kenealy Park (SS), Norristown (SK), and the Perkiomen Trail near Arcola (PK). Willow Flycatcher was reported at 17 sites (m.ob.). The only report for White-eyed Vireo was at NFP 6/1 (BHi). Yellow-throated Vireo was at White’s Mill Preserve (SG, KR), DCKL (GF, MA, PA), UCV (GF), and Betzwood Park (SS), for the only sites entered in eBird. The Montgomeryville quarry site that previously had Common Raven reported a few times in the past year or so and as recently as May had a presumed family of five 7/1 (DF). It is assumed this was the breeding site. If true, this is the first breeding in the county. They probably were here before deforestation in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, but I could find no specific reference to their breeding status here. Horned Lark was heard and seen in flight a few days in Jul at DCKL but not identified until 7/9 (MA, PA). The same or another was at nearby GLR 7/13 (MA, PA). A Jul roost of Purple Martins at DCKL peaked at an excellent count of 130 birds 7/24 (GF). A report of 25 Bank Swallows, including suspected begging and feeding young, on the Schuylkill River at Valley Forge National Park 6/24 may indicate breeding nearby (CH). However, the observation by a novice birder could not be confirmed by more experienced birders but is worth follow up for next year. The high single site count of 70 Barn Swallows at GLR 7/29 (GF) is noteworthy. No Black-capped Chickadee or Black-capped/Carolina Chickadee were entered in eBird. Rarely reported in summer, a Brown Creeper was at Douglass Twp. 6/24 (MA). There were only 8 Veery entered in eBird from five sites (ZM, SS, LT, RW). Brown Thrasher was entered at eight sites in eBird (m.ob.).

Since the large woodland mentioned in the first paragraph is not represented well in eBird, summer warbler reports are few and hopefully not indicative of the real status. A total of 13 warbler species were reported. Of these, five species had only one or two entries in eBird. The rarest based on reports were Worm-eating Warbler at UCV 6/1 (GF), Black-and- White Warbler at Upper Hanover Twp. 6/24 (MA, PA), Prothonotary Warbler at Horsham Twp. 6/24 (DS), Yellow-throated Warbler at UCV 6/17 (PH), and Yellow-breasted Chat at Gwynedd Preserve 6/11 (AM). There were 3 Louisiana Waterthrush at UCV 6/1 (GF), a traditional site, and one at the Manatawny Creek, Pottstown (JT). Blue-winged Warbler was at the UCV 6/1-2 (GF, KR) and NFP 6/25 (BHi). Northern Parula was at Rolling Hill Park 6/10 (SS), Evansburg State Park 6/24 (JE), and NFP 6/25 and 7/14 (BHi). There were five site reports for American Redstart from Royersford 6/1 (WS), Haverford 6/9 (SJ), Elmwood Park 6/10 (BHi), Rolling Hill Park 6/10 (SS), and DCKL 7/10 (AG). For magnitude comparison, there were many entries for Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Ovenbird, and 8 for Prairie Warbler (m.ob.). Among the six species of sparrows reported in eBird, there was only one Savannah Sparrow at Palm 7/16 (MA) and one Grasshopper Sparrow at Skippack Twp. 6/18 (AG). Rose-breasted Grosbeak had only two entries in eBird at Salford Twp. 6/9 (ZM) and Douglass Twp. 6/26 (MA, PA). Both a first year male and an adult male Blue Grosbeak were at UHT in July (GF, m.ob.). At least one female was present (DW). A pair was at NFP 7/19 (BHi), where they have been somewhat regular over many years.

Dickcissel provided the major highlight of the season when a pair was found 7/10 at UHT (GF). Presumed feeding of young in the nest was first noted 7/16 (JM, AM). On 7/17, adults were again seen carrying food in and fecal sacs out of the nest area (DW). Although difficult to tell exactly how many adult birds were there, the best guess was 4 total (DW). On 7/25 a family group totaling 6 birds was observed together indicating successful fledging (BHe, ph.). I could find no specific reference to previous nesting in the county in all the various historical bird status books I had. However, Birds of Pennsylvania 1890 by B. H. Warren, M.D. says the species was a

“Tolerably common summer resident in some sections of southeastern, southern, and western counties of Pennsylvania; rare, or at least not reported to occur, in the northern counties or the mountainous regions of the state.” Pennsylvania Birds by Earl Poole 1964 says this species was a common summer resident in the Delaware River valley among other sites prior to 1880. Thus, before 1890 it is likely it was breeding here. A Bobolink near Graterford Prison in Skippack Twp. 6/18 (AG) indicates likely breeding there. Post breeding high counts were 18 at GLR 7/29 (GF) and a conservative 25 at UHT 7/16 (AM, JM). Four Eastern Meadowlarks at Upper Hanover Twp. 6/25 and one at GLR 7/7 were the only reports (GF). Orchard Oriole was reported from about 13 sites in eBird (m.ob.). I remember when this was a hot line rare bird here in the mid-1970s. Observers: August Mirabella, 1443 Wheaton Lane, North Wales, PA, 19454, (215) 368-0594, [email protected], Mary Ache, Paulette Ache, Paul Bernhardt, Bel Broadley, Paul Driver, Jesse Estlow, Devich Farbotnik, George Franchois, Scott Fraser, Scott Godshall, Joe Greco, Al Guarente, Brian Henderson(BHe), Paul Heveran, Barbara Hiebsch (BHi), Len Hillegass, Clifford Hirst, Gail Johnson, Sheryl Johnson, Steve Kacir, Paul Krepto, Jon Levin, many Observers (m.ob.), Anna Mindel (AMn) , Judy Mirabella, John Morgan (JMo), Zack Moyer, Christopher Mullaney, Ken Rieker, Michael Rosengarten, Diane Sembello, Win Shaffer, Jennifer Sherwood (JSh), Jamie Stewart (JSt), Steve Strawbridge, Paul Teese, Jaime Thomas, Lisa Tull, Todd Watkins, Dustin Welch, Linda Widdop, Rebecca Wilson. Montour County No compiler. Northampton County Locations: Martins Creek Environmental Preserve (MCEP).

There were few reports to summarize for the summer period. Many days seemed hot and dry. The Mute Swans at the Stone Church pond successfully nested with 3 juveniles observed 7/27 (MS, CCS). There was a female Ring-necked Duck on the flyash pond at MCEP 6/1-17 (MS, CCS). A Great Egret showed up 7/25 at Green Pond and remained through the period (MS). At Green Pond 7/28, there were 7 Green Herons, the Great Egret, and a Solitary Sandpiper (DA). The three young Bald Eagles at the Portland nest looked well-fed and close to leaving the nest 6/17 (MS, CCS). A lone Herring Gull was flying around at Minsi Lake 7/27 (MS, CCS).

A Whip-poor-will search at Little Gap on 6/17 turned a little scary when 2 black bears wanted to use the same trail. The bears didn’t frighten the 3 Eastern Whip-poor-will’s calling that night, however (MS, CCS). A Common Nighthawk could be seen hunting over the new deer exclosure west of Little Gap on the Blue Mountain covering both sides of the ridge and 2 counties 6/30 (MS, CCS). An adult Purple Martin was observed feeding 5 juveniles on Hillside Rd in E. Allen Twp 7/27 (BM). Several Yellow-throated Warblers were seen along the Lehigh River between Freemansburg and the Bethlehem Boat Club on 6/18 (RW).

A visit to Graver’s Hill on 6/17 produced Vesper, Savannah, and Grasshopper sparrows and Horned Lark (MS, CCS). Grasshopper Sparrows were at Benders Church Rd 6/28 (DW). Blue Grosbeaks were reported from 5 locations. There was a male at Benders Church Rd, Plainfield Twp 6/18-7/22 (RW, DW), a pair at Grand Central Landfill 7/11-22 (RW), another pair at MCEP 6/18-7/22 (RW, DW), a male on Mt Pleasant Rd, and a sighting on the Kittatinny west of Little Gap 7/22 (RW). An Eastern Meadowlark was observed carrying food at MCEP 7/8 (MS, CCS). Three Eastern Meadowlarks were in a field by the Totts Gap Art Institute 7/27 (MS). This site hosted Bobolinks on 6/17 (MS, CCS). Observers: Michael Schall, 126 N Chestnut St, Bath, (610) 737-5275, [email protected], Dan Altif, Betsy Mescavage, Corinne Campbell Schall, Dustin Welch, Rick Wiltraut. Northumberland County No compiler. Perry County No report. Compiler: Ramsay Koury, 123 Old Ford Drive, Camp Hill, PA 17011, (717) 761-1871, [email protected].


Philadelphia County Locations: Benjamin Rush State Park (BRSP), Carpenter’s Woods (CW), Delaware River (DR), Delaware River Trail (DRT), Fairmount Park (FP), Franklin D. Roosevelt Park (FDR), Glen Foerd Mansion (GF), John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum (TI), Pennypack Environmental Center (PEC), Pennypack on the Delaware (POD), Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education (SCEE), Schuylkill River (SR), Wissahickon Creek (WC).

The 2012 Summer Breeding Chart lists 92 species of which 80 were confirmed as breeders and 5 were probable breeders. Even with the recent successful habitat restorations at Houston Meadow and Manatawana Farm, Yellow-breasted Chat, Blue Grosbeak, and Bobolink fell off the list after they arrived last summer following a long absence. A second year male Blue Grosbeak was seen and heard at Houston Meadow 6/4 (BB, Audubon Staff), but was not reported again. Both PEC (52 species) and SCEE (82 species) held breeding bird censuses in mid-June. Each had results consistent with past experience and no new rarities were found.

It is rare to report a Snow Goose, first at DRT 6/28 (MD) and then at TI 7/15 where it lingered through Aug. Wood Duck continue to outnumber Mallard especially when they congregate at TI post-breeding, but they are also in the WC and at Morris Arboretum. In and among the 100+ Wood Duck at TI after mid-July were a female Northern Shoveler and a female Green-winged Teal 7/11 (FW). Earlier on 6/11 AB found a male Bufflehead and a male Ruddy Duck 6/13-24. A Pied-billed Grebe was found at TI 6/2 (FW) and on 7/15 (AG). The draw-down of the TI impoundment, helped by summer drought and extreme heat, not only attracted thousands of migrants, but it benefitted breeding Least Bittern which did not have their nests flooded by the usual high water. On 6/23 four adult Least Bittern were seen (AB), indicating there were more than one pair. By 7/11 there were three bittern chicks visible in their nest (AB, DB, m. ob.) and subsequently photos showed an adult feeding a young bird (AL).

The successful drawdown of the impoundment at Tinicum attracted over 10,000 shorebirds and hundreds of herons and egrets. Up to 200 Great Blue Heron and Great Egret were seen from day to day, but strangely Snowy Egret stayed away except for two birds 7/27-31. Little Blue Heron, usually several seen for extended periods, was also hard to find except for 7/11, and 7/22-23. More surprising was the continuing decline in Green Heron sightings from just four years ago. At TI, 5-8 Green Heron on a summer visit were expected. In 2012 there has been just one report of more than 5 herons. Black-crowned Night-Heron still don’t seem to be breeding in Philly, but they are seen regularly in northeast Philly because the DR shore is close to their New Jersey nest site. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was a great find on the bank of Cobb’s Creek in West Philadelphia 6/29 (AZ, ph).

A new Osprey nest is being built on a large buoy in the DR. This nest, if established by next summer will definitely be in Philadelphia waters (FW). Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, and Peregrine Falcon chicks fledged successfully. An early Sharp-shinned Hawk checked out POD 7/19 (FW). A Sora Rail visited TI 7/22-24 (TF, AB). There was an intriguing report of Black Rail at TI from two birders who had never seen the species before. After discussion and consultation, it could not be confirmed. Along with the other unexpected waterfowl at TI an American Coot visited 7/11-15 (FW, AG).

Mid-July saw shorebird numbers and diversity increase; ten species could be found on most days. Our only Black-bellied Plover (in basic plumage) along with 2 Sanderling were at POD 7/15 (FW). From 7/16 Semipalmated Plover were present, increasing in number to more than 50 by mid-Aug. Killdeer are taken for granted, but they are breeding and congregate on the fields at POD from mid-Jul. Spotted Sandpiper nest at or near POD and at TI where 2-3 birds are frequently reported. Several Solitary Sandpiper 7/11-30, 5 Western Sandpiper, 4 White-rumped Sandpiper and up to 14 Pectoral Sandpiper were long staying additions to thousands of Semipalmated Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper and dozens of Greater Yellowlegs, and Lesser Yellowlegs 7/11-8/11. Impressive were 28 Stilt Sandpiper 7/19-31. Short-billed Dowitcher arrived 7/28.

Again this year a Least Tern was found at TI 6/23 among the many Forster’s Tern that are present (AB, DB). In addition to groups of Laughing Gull migrating along the DR in July, a Lesser Black-backed Gull, not the resident bird, was at POD 7/22 (FW).

Our elusive Barred Owl was seen and heard in the WC area 7/7 after a hiatus (KR). Acadian Flycatcher nested at Tinicum, for what is likely a first record, and produced one Brown-headed Cowbird. FW was shocked to find a Least Flycatcher at POD 7/25. Purple Martin sightings usually get challenged and quickly devolve into the common Tree Swallow. In late July, however, several martin sightings at TI really were migrating martins. It’s a shame that the gourd rack was not erected this year. Martins could be

nesting at TI as they did historically. MD found a late Blackpoll at 25th and Delancy 6/2. Pine Warblers were breeding again at Hermit Lane (FW). A Prairie Warbler 6/4 was late (MW). Bobolinks were checking out more than 100 acres of wild rice (Zizania) at TI 7/11 (FW). Contributors: Doris McGovern, 209 Dogwood Rd., Media, PA 19063, (610) 565-8484, [email protected], Debbie Beer, Adrian Binns, Brian Byrnes, Martin Dellwo, Steve DuPont, Todd Fellenbaum, Al Guarente, Ken Januski, Pete Kurtz, Alex Lamoreaux, Chuck Lyman, Lynn Roman, Mike Rosengarten, Keith Russell, Brian Schultz, Mike Wilson, Frank Windfelder, Alex Zorach. Pike County No report. Compiler: Joe Greco, 3116 Township Woods Road, East Greenville, PA 18041, (717) 571-2933, [email protected]. Potter County No report. Compiler: David Hauber, RR 2 Box 153, Coudersport, PA 16915, (814) 274-8946, [email protected]. Schuylkill County Locations: Deer Lake (DL), Jeff’s Swamp (JS), Owl Creek Reservoir (OCR), Swatara State Park (SSP), Sweet Arrow Lake (SAL)

The temperatures through the period were higher than normal. Rainfall was normal in June but drier than normal in July. The county registered a total of 118 species possibly breeding here, consisting primarily of upland passerines.

The county’s summer waterfowl assemblage is pretty much limited to Wood Duck and Mallard. Occasionally Mute Swan can be found such as the four on 6/1 near Mahanoy City (MW). A Common Merganser was also present in May this year at SSP with eleven young (MaW). The site where the birds were seen is very close to the Lebanon border. A nest was located in Schuylkill so this is considered a rare breeding occurrence in the county.

Bald Eagles were seen at SAL this summer (DD) but no nests have been located. Broad-winged Hawk numbers seem to be decreasing across the county but several sightings were posted this summer, including one at JS 6/24 (DK, DR, KG), at McAdoo Hollow 6/27 (JD) and off I-81 in northern Schuylkill 7/2 (JoD).

Breeding shorebirds are very uncommon in Schuylkill but Spotted Sandpipers were reported 6/10 at SAL (DD) and juveniles were reported late July at DL (TC).

The only owl reported during the summer breeding months was Eastern Screech-Owl in numerous locations. Several postings for Eastern Whip-poor-wills occurred early June primarily in the north central part of the county around St Clair and Frackville and in the southern part of the county (KG, JoD, JP). An excellent find for the county this year was a pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers on the north slope of Blue Mountain (KG). This pair was confirmed breeding which is a very notable occurrence for Schuylkill.

Horned Lark were seen near Pitman 6/15 (MW) and again 7/15 in the same area (DK). Red-breasted Nuthatch is a species not common to the county during the summer; however, three sightings were reported this year. These were 6/16 at OCR (JD), SGL 227 on 7/2 (RB) and 7/7 at SGL 106 (DF).

There were a total of 20 warbler species found this summer all of which normally occur in varying numbers and locations. Black-throated Blue, Blackburnian, and Canada warblers were found on territory this summer at JS (DK, DR, KG). Another Black-throated Blue was located 6/1 near Mahanoy City (MW). A rather rare sighting of Northern Waterthrush was made 6/15 at SSP (BR). Also notable, Kentucky Warbler was found on territory at SGL110 (KG). On 6/15, 26 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were also found in the same area of SGL 110 (KG).

There are some larger agricultural fields in the northwestern Schuylkill that attract breeding sparrow species. Vesper Sparrows were found 6/15 (MW) and 7/15 (DK, DR) near Pittman. Grasshopper Sparrow was seen 6/17 near Hegins (MW) and Savannah Sparrow was also seen near Pittman on 6/15 (MW). Swamp Sparrows were heard singing in mid-June at JS (DK, DR, KG). There was one record of a White-throated Sparrow at SGL 106 (DF), an uncommon breeder in the county. Dark-eyed Juncos


were heard near Brockton 6/19 (DK) and north of Still Creek Reservoir 7/9 (MD). Observers: Dave Rieger, 401 Stoney Mountain Road, Auburn, PA 17922, [email protected], Rob Bergstresser, Tom Clauser, Michael David, Jonathan DeBalko, John DeBalko (JoD), Denise Donmoyer, Devich Forbotnik, Kerry Grim, Barb Jucker, Dave Kruel, Jan Prendergast, Barb Ritzheimer, Devin Schwartz, Mike Ward, Scott Weidensaul, Mark Weiss (MaW). Snyder County Locations: Snyder Middleswarth Natural Area (SM), Tall Timbers State Park (TT), Snyder County Birding Trail (SBT), Walker Lake (WL) and other various locations.

Two Caspian Terns were observed at WL 7/14 (CK). Two adult Barn Owls and 7 owlets were observed 6/18 at the SBT. Six of the seven owlets were successfully banded by the PGC 6/18. The owls were observed many times throughout the breeding season (JW). Two Winter Wrens were found in SM 7/4 (AL, IG) and 2 were also observed 7/5 at TT as well (JW). A Worm-eating Warbler was found on the SBT 6/6 and another one was observed at TT 7/5 (JW). A Hooded Warbler was found 6/25 along HR and another was found at SM 7/4 (IG, AL). On 6/30 a Northern Parula was found at SBT (JW) and 2 were found at TT 7/5 (JW). A Yellow-breasted Chat was found at the SBT 7/4 (IG, AL). Two Grasshopper Sparrows were found along Penns Drive 6/29 (JD). Contributors: Jonathan DeBalko, Ian Gardner, Chad Kauffman Alex Lamoreaux, Jason Weller. Somerset County Locations: Berlin Area (BA), Buffalo Creek (BC), Kimberly Run Natural Area of Somerset County Conservancy (KRNA), Lanzone Property (LP), Payne Property (PP), Somerset Lake (SL), Summit Mills (SM), Quemahoning Reservoir (QR).

Unlike many areas of the state, Somerset was blessed with adequate rains and flourishing crops throughout the season. The continued drawdown of Somerset Lake made for many interesting late and early shorebird sightings, but by the end of July vegetation had overgrown the mud flats.

A female Hooded Merganser was doing a distraction display at QR 6/10 (JM, MM, CL, JP). Northern Bobwhites which were released in 2011 in the BA successfully survived the mild winter and bred (JP). An unwary, calling Northern Bobwhite was also calling in SM (EB). Great Blue Heron numbers seemed up and were fairly common throughout the season (m. ob.). A mature Black-crowned Night Heron was seen on several occasions near the LP in late July to early August (ML, TM). The SL Ospreys appeared to have an unsuccessful nesting for the first time in many years. The nest tower is out of the water with the drawdown and mammalian predators may have been involved. Both mature and immature Bald Eagles were seen on multiple occasions at SL and Youghiogheny Lake through the period. No known nests are in the county. Northern Harrier bred successfully at the grasslands at KRNA with the male delivering prey to the female as late as 7/10 (JP). A male carrying prey was also seen at GMF in early June (ML). A Merlin was seen sporadically near Somerset through period (ML, JP). The Sandhill Crane pair was present through period at BC; no young were noted but observations were spotty.

Shorebirds straggled through SL on their northbound journey until at least 6/12 when single White-rumped Sandpiper and Baird’s Sandpiper were seen, with 3 very late Caspian Terns (ML, JP). The amazing high count of 23 White-rumped Sandpipers 6/1 at SL decreased to 12 on 6/4, when they were accompanied by 2 Semipalmated Plovers and 9 Semipalmated Sandpipers (ML, JP). A Baird’s Sandpiper was first identified by photograph and sound recordings at SL 6/4 (ML). The first returning birds were 9 Least Sandpipers 7/8 (JP). On 7/20 there was a nice assortment of shorebirds including one Pectoral Sandpiper, one Solitary Sandpiper, one Semipalmated Plover, 8 Short-billed Dowitchers, 2 Semipalmated Sandpipers, and 8 Least Sandpipers at SL (JP). On 7/27 a Lesser Yellowlegs and a Sanderling were also present (AP, JP).

Both Yellow-billed and Black-billed cuckoos were calling daily at PP through most of July. White-eyed and Yellow-throated vireos were at QR 6/10 (CL, JM, MM, JP). A large number of Bank Swallows north of Central City in June indicated nearby nesting. Thirty Cliff Swallows bred once on EB’s barn with at least 12 fledging a second brood. A Purple Martin was

seen investigating the swallow nests for a few days starting 6/15. Golden-crowned Kinglets were singing throughout the period at PP.

Yellow-rumped Warblers were present at PP through the season and are probably breeding although no definite signs were detected (ML, AP, CP, JP). A large concentration of Cerulean Warblers was heard in a 2.5 mile paddle on Youghiogheny Reservoir; ML reported hearing at least 20 on the Somerset side. Also notable were 4 singing Kentucky Warblers in the same area.

A Vesper Sparrow singing above the memorial wall at Flight 93 on 6/3 seemed appropriate (JP). Henslow’s Sparrows were in an old field near Fairhope away from the strip mines 6/13 (CP, JP). A Blue Grosbeak was singing and then seen flying at LP late July (ML, TM). A Dickcissel was reported near the Maryland line in late July (ML). A lonely Pine Siskin was at PP feeders 7/28-29 (ML, AP, JP). Observers: Jeff Payne, 9755 Glades Pike, Berlin, PA 15530, (814) 267-5718, Elmer Brenneman, Carolyn LaBute, Scott Bastian, Mike Lanzone, Anthony Marich, Trish Miller, Meg Moses, Jim Moses, Alan Peterson, Chris Payne. Sullivan County Locations: Loyalsock State Forest (LSF), Shady Nook Lake (SNL), Cherry Township (CT), Dutch Mountain (DM), World’s End State Park (WESP), Eagles Mere (EM).

Over 80 species were recorded in Sullivan during the months of June and July. There were no pass through migrants reported during the period. Observations are by RM unless otherwise indicated.

Once again Sandhill Crane was confirmed as a nester in Sullivan. What made this year more interesting was the presence of three other adults in the same vicinity as the two parents and chick. The adults and the family unit were observed at the same time on multiple occasions; however, they were never seen together as a group of six.

A pair of Northern Harriers had been seen nest building near Mildred during the month of May. Final confirmation occurred during the month of July when two juvenile birds were seen flying low and perching in the nest area. Another visit to the location a week later found four juvenile birds. These birds were also perching and flying low in the vicinity of the nest area. An apparent family group of American Kestrels were observed near Kinsley’s Corner in late July.

They included Acadian Flycatcher was found in LSF during June near Kettle Creek Gorge and Black-billed Cuckoo and Barred Owl both heard in late July in the Dutch Mountain area. A Dark-eyed Junco nest with 3 eggs in a hanging plant was reported 7/16 in Eagles Mere (SN). Another junco nest was found along Shanerburg Road in LSF.

An excellent report was filed in late June from the WESP and LSF area. A Mourning Warbler was found in a deer enclosure area where recent timbering has occurred. The area around High Knob Overlook has been good for that species for the past twenty years but the vegetation succession there has made the habitat less attractive. It is good to see them being found in another location. Unusual for June, a Pine Siskin was observed. Common warblers included Canada, Blackburnian, Black-throated Green, and Magnolia. Brown Creeper was confirmed as a nester in two locations. Fledgling Common Ravens were observed in multiple locations and three fledgling Barred Owls were seen close by a road. Also seen and heard singing in the area of Cherry Twp. was an Orchard Oriole. This is not a common bird in the county. Observers: Rob Megraw, 131 Butternut Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464, (610) 323-0119, [email protected], Skip Conant, Matt Megraw, Sally Newcombe, Rick Wiltraut. Susquehanna County No report. Compiler: Amy Davis, 129 W. Lancaster Ave. #2, Downingtown, PA 19335, (484) 753-5154, [email protected]. Tioga County No report. Compiler: Gary Tyson, 130 Hills Creek Drive, Wellsboro, PA, 16901, (570) 724-5789, [email protected].


Union County No compiler. Venango County Locations: Allegheny River (AR), Barkeyville Strips (BS), Buttermilk Hill Nature Sanctuary (BHNS), County Line Road (CLRd), Fisherman’s Cove Road (FCRd), Franklin (FKN), Kahle Lake (KL), Kennerdell (KEN), Oil Creek State Park (OCSP), Pittsbville-Emlenton Road (PERd), Red Bank Creek (RBCr), Rynd Farm Road (RFRd), Seneca (SEN), Two-Mile Run County Park (TMRCP), Westminister Highlands Campground (WHC).

As with last year, it wasn’t a banner year for summer birding; 126 species were reported compared with 133 species last year. The highlight of the season was a Trumpeter Swan on the AR north of KEN. The bird was first reported to CW 7/26 by a relative and was confirmed 7/28 (ST, JM). They were able to read and photograph the J53 wing tag. It was the same bird that spent much of the spring on RBCr in Clarion.

KL produced the waterfowl sightings of note including a Ruddy Duck that lingered through 6/1 (MV), an early Pied-billed Grebe 7/21 (ST, JM), and the first returning Double-crested Cormorant 7/23 (RS). WJ reported seeing an immature Little Blue Heron while kayaking on the AR about five miles south of FKN 7/24. A new Bald Eagle nest at OCSP was reportedly successful. The only Northern Harrier sighting was over a residential area near SEN 6/6 (GE). A Virginia Rail was located at TMRCP 6/6-7 (GE, RS). At least two Upland Sandpipers were reported from CLRd 6/3 (RS) and 6/21 (GE). Shorebird reports were limited to KL and included Least Sandpiper 7/14 (ST, JM) and Short-billed Dowitcher 7/14 (ST, JM). KL also provided reports of Black Tern 6/1 (GE) and Forster’s Tern 7/14 (ST, JM).

Both Yellow-billed (GE, JM, JS, KG, SC, SS, ST, WJ) and Black-billed Cuckoos (GE, JF, JS, KG, TN) were heard and seen with regularity. GD reported seeing a Red-headed Woodpecker in FKN 7/24. A single Horned Lark was observed in a field near KL on 6/21 (GE). The only know Purple Martin colony in the county is flourishing at an Amish sawmill along CLRd (RN, GE, RS). Cliff Swallow colonies under the AR Bridge in FKN, under new Route 8 along FCRd, and under the Oil Creek Bridge at the entrance to OCSP, were again successful. Brown Creeper was present at OCSP through 6/16 (LM, SS) and at WHC on 6/9 (JF). RN reported a Northern Mockingbird at BS 7/9. A Kentucky Warbler was defending territory along PERd from 6/10-6/24 (GE). The only Worm-eating Warbler report was from RFRd in OCSP 7/1 by SC. An Orchard Oriole was reported from BHNS 6/15 (JS, KG).

Last year KL showed promise for increased shorebird activity, and was maintained at a low level this year, but the mudflats were covered with weeds by season’s end, and the lake returned to its mediocre production. Observers: Gary Edwards, 224 Meadow Rd, Apt 9, Seneca, PA 16346 (814) 676-3011, [email protected]; Russ States, 111 E. 4th St., Oil City, PA 16301, (814) 676-6320, [email protected], Nancy Baker, Shawn Collins, Gwen Doyle, John Fedak, Kathie Goodblood, Scott Hazlett, Craig Holt, William Jones, Meg Kolodick, Linda Martin, Jeff McDonald, Tom Nicholls, Richard Nugent, Kavistubh Patwardhen, Steve Sanford, Jerry Stanley, Shannon Thompson, Neil Troyer, Mark Vass, Kathy Winger, Carole Winslow. Warren County No compiler. Washington County Locations: AMD Pond on Hahn Road (AMD), Canonsburg Lake (CL), Greencove Wetlands (GCW), Robinson Twp. (RBT).

A good count of 141 Mallards was made at AMD 7/12 (MV). A male Blue-winged Teal appeared at a pond in RBT 6/9 (MV) and remained for a few weeks. The female Ring-necked Duck present at AMD since 1/10 stayed throughout the season and into September (MV, et al.). An American Coot was at AMD 7/3 (MV), but considering its absence in the spring, it is left to speculation as to whether this was AMD’s long-resident coot back again. First Solitary Sandpipers were on the earliest end of their normal window of arrival at CL (ST) and RBT (MV) 7/6. A Least Sandpiper was also back at CL 7/6-7 (ST) but not reported thereafter. American Woodcock was reported in RBT in mid-Jun (ST, GM). A Black-billed Cuckoo was heard calling at dusk in RBT 6/14 (GM), and Yellow-billed

Cuckoo was tallied at GCW 7/4 (ST, DW). A Barred Owl, probably a fairly widespread resident but rarely reported, was at Mingo Creek County Park 6/23 (BM). The most interesting sighting of the season was an adult Short-eared Owl at RBT 6/12-14 (ST, GM). The bird was seen in the same area where small numbers of short-ears traditionally winter. This bird was observed probably carrying food 6/13 (ST). A Red-headed Woodpecker was a nice find near Atlasburg 6/5 (ER). American Kestrels probably bred successfully at RBT and were reported there 6/9 (MV) and 6/15 (ST).

White-eyed Vireos were quite common at GCW 7/4 (ST, DW), when 4 were found. Four Horned Larks including three fledglings were found near Avella that same day (ST, DW). Huge numbers of Barn Swallows, estimated as at least 750, were present in the afternoon at CL 7/6-7 (ST). Red-breasted Nuthatches probably bred again at Washington Cemetery, where 11 were counted 6/7 including probably juveniles (PB). Four were still there 7/4 (PB). Two were also reported in Hillman State Park 7/29 (PK). Reports of warblers were fairly unremarkable. A total of 16 Common Yellowthroats were counted at GCW 7/4 (ST, DW). Yellow Warbler was present at AMD in early June (GG, LGK). Prairie Warblers were on territory near Bavington 6/16 (MF). A Yellow-breasted Chat was in RBT 6/9 (MV) and an impressive 6 were at GCW 7/4 (ST, DW).

The same reclaimed strip mines in RBT that held the Short-eared Owl continue to be a stronghold for grassland sparrows. Top count of Grasshopper Sparrow at the site was 5 on 6/9 (MV), and 4 for Henslow’s Sparrow 6/9 (MV) and 6/14 (GM). The 6/14 birds were all heard singing well after dusk. A very nice total of 7 Henslow’s Sparrows were at Hillman State Park 7/11 (JM). Swamp Sparrows summered at GCW with up to 5 present through at least 7/4 (JM, ST, DW). Nine Indigo Buntings were at GCW 7/4 (ST, DW). Good numbers of Bobolink were spotted outside of Atlasburg 6/5 (ER), a previously unreported location. Eastern Meadowlark was reported at RBT very frequently throughout the season (m.ob.). A high count of 58 Brown-headed Cowbirds (mostly juvs.) was made at CL 7/6 (ST). Observers: Geoff Malosh, 450 Amherst Avenue, Moon Township, PA 15108-2654, (412) 735-3128, [email protected], Paul Brown, Mike Fialkovich, Gigi Gerben, Luke Gerben Kaspar, Peter Keyel, Jeff McDonald, Bob Mulvihill, Ed Richards, Shannon Thompson, Mark Vass, Dave Wilton. Wayne County Locations: Prompton State Park (PSP), SGL 159 near Alder Marsh Pond (AMP), SGL 159 near Tanners Falls (TF).

Unless otherwise noted, the observations were of the author. A Northern Bobwhite was heard calling 6/1 near the intersection of S.

Preston and Red Shale Rd. (TG). A male Northern Harrier was seen flying over a field where one is seen frequently on the Bromberg property near the intersection of S. Preston and Red Shale Rd. 6/9 (TG, JB). A calling Yellow-billed Cuckoo was noted at PSP 6/6. A Black-billed Cuckoo was heard at PSP 6/15 (CF), and another was heard calling near the intersection of Poyntelle and S. Preston Rd. 6/9 (TG). The Red-headed Woodpecker has continued to be sighted off the Cliff Trail in PSP 6/15 and 7/3 (CF). It was exciting to see an adult with a juvenile on 8/1 and confirm this species nesting in Wayne. An Acadian Flycatcher was observed singing near a swamp close to Red Shale Rd. 6/9 (TG). Winter Wrens were found singing in TF 6/17 and AMP 6/16. Three Brown Thrashers were observed during the Wayne County BBS route 6/11. One Mourning Warbler was at AMP 6/16, while another was off the Cliff Trail in PSP 6/10 and 6/15. Two singing Canada Warblers have continued at TF 6/17, and other individuals were observed singing at AMP 6/3, and in a swamp close to Red Shale Rd. 6/9 (TG). Observers: Chris Fischer, c/o Bugaj/Fischer, PC, P.O. Box 390, Honesdale, PA 18431, (570) 446-9597, [email protected], John Bromberg, Trudy Gerlach, Mike Shanley. Westmoreland County Locations: Beaver Run Reservoir (BRR), Cedar Creek County Park (CCCP), Donegal Lake (DL), Hunter’s Lane (HL), Kuehl Property (KP), Murrysville Community Park (MCP), Northmoreland County Park (NCP), and PNR (Powdermill Nature Reserve).

Assumed early migrants, 5 American Black Ducks were at BRR 7/11 (MM). There were eBird reports for one Pied-billed Grebe 6/17 and 7/8 on Loyalhanna Creek near Latrobe (MC), with comments indicating that the


earlier observation was likely that of a juvenile. Also, one Pied-billed Grebe was seen on the Boxcartown Road Pond 7/20 (MM). Adult and juvenile Red-shouldered and Broad-winged Hawks were observed near the KP (JK, TK) at various times during the season. Despite nearby drilling activity, Osprey continued to nest at Donegal Lake. A family group of 4 American Kestrels were observed at the MCP 6/3 (TK). There were multiple June reports of the Tarentum Bridge Peregrine Falcons (RP, AH); two juveniles were fledged from this nest site. Single Solitary Sandpipers were at the Boxcartown Pond 7/24 (MM) and at the Hamilton Road ponds 7/26 (MM). Two Spotted Sandpipers were observed at NCP 7/11 (MVT). A Barred Owl called in response to the fire siren at the KP 7/9 (JK).

Eastern Kingbirds and a Willow Flycatcher were reported in NS 6/7 (MF). A single Purple Martin was observed at PNR on 6/8 (BC). There was a very high count of 12 Purple Martins at BRR 7/15 and then a single bird 7/26. No birds were found at the Martin House in MCP where they were found nesting in 2010 and 2011. Six Bank Swallows were reported at CCCP 6/23 (MC). Four Cliff Swallows were reported at BRR 7/11 and another 2 on 7/15 (MM).

Some of the better birds that nest in the higher elevations in the eastern part of the county that were observed at various dates were Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Common Raven, Blue-headed Vireo, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, Magnolia Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Canada Warbler, and Swamp Sparrow at HL (KD, RN, KSJ). A Yellow-throated Warbler was at Idlewild Park 6/7 (ML). A Yellow-breasted Chat was heard in NS 6/12 (MF).

Grasshopper Sparrows again nested in NS with a high count of 10 observed 6/12 (MF). During a BBS, a Vesper Sparrow was seen near Reagantown (MM, JK, TK). A Henslow’s Sparrow was observed near Delmont 7/12 (KB). A lingering White-throated Sparrow was in DM’s yard 6/1. Orchard Orioles were observed in several locations including at DL 6/28 (BC) and at NCP 7/30 (MVT). A Purple Finch was reported at PNR 6/18 (BC).

Total species recorded for 2012 was 135, well ahead of last year’s 120 and the 2010 total of 118. A special note of thanks to Ken Byerly who submitted a full record of his breeding observations. Observers: Tom Kuehl, 3615 Hilty Road, Export, PA 15632, (724)-325-1918, [email protected], Ken Byerly, Maeve Charlesworth, Blaine Carnes, Karen Delaney, Mike Fialkovich, Amy Henrici, Janet Kuehl, Mark McConaughy, Donna Mohney, Mike Lanzone, Richard Nugent, Rob Protz, Kate St. John, Powdermill Banding Station (PNR). Wyoming County No report. Compiler: Joe DeMarco, 15 West Tioga Street, Tunkhannock, PA 18657, (570) 836-1468, [email protected]. York County Locations: Althouse School Rd Landfill (ALT), Brunner Island (BI), Codorus State Park (CSP), Gifford Pinchot State Park (GPSP), High Point Scenic Vista and Recreation Area (HIGH), Lake Redman(LR) Ski Roundtop (SRTP), Spring Grove (SPGR), Springettsbury Township (SpT).

A total of 120 species were reported for the period. It was a bit of an unusual summer reporting period as the highlight was the waterfowl group. Mute Swans continue their year round presence at SPGR (PK). BI held good Wood Duck numbers with a high of 23 7/8 (RK). Two locations produced reports of Blue-winged Teal. Three were found at BI and two along Gut Rd 7/25 (BS). A single Common Merganser was at BI 7/8 (RK) and there were three at Gut Rd 7/25 (BS). Three sites were visited by Red-breasted Merganser; one at GPSP 6/20 (RS), one at LR 6/30 (JB), and four at CSP 7/21-27 (KL). LR’s male Ruddy Duck from the spring remained throughout this period (m.ob.). As in prior years, sub-adult Common Loons were at CSP (KL) but this year they vacated the lake after the 6/22-24 Codorus Blast (fireworks) event. Pied-billed Grebe were at CSP with three 6/21 (BPB) and one at LR 7/13 (DC). American Coot was at CSP 6/21 (BPB) and 7/13 (AG), with the latter observation noting two birds.

In the continuing complete reversal of gamebirds in York from 25 years ago, there were no reports of Ring-necked Pheasant and small numbers of Wild Turkey found at five locations. A single Double-crested Cormorant was at LR 7/13 (AG). The Kiwanis Lake rookery had a high count of 17 Great Egret 6/11 (PK) with similarly high counts of 15 at BI 7/19 (RK) and 14 at LR 7/29 (DC). A juvenile Little Blue Heron was at CSP from 7/15 to

the end of the period (KL, m.ob.). The Black-crowned Night Heron colony held 32 birds 6/11 (PK). Evidence of likely dispersals from the colony continued throughout the period at various locales within an approximate 10 mile radius of Kiwanis Lake.

Successful Osprey nesting occurred at both BI and CSP with two chicks noted at both nests (m. ob.). BI had the high Osprey count with 6 on 7/8 (RK) and a juvenile Peregrine Falcon was also present. Bald Eagle was regularly reported throughout the period at various locations.

A Virginia Rail was at Marsh Run 6/17 (DC). Dillsburg’s Sandhill Crane from the prior period was last reported on 6/17 (KVW). There were six shorebird species reported. A nice count of 30 Killdeer came from LR 7/13 (DC). CSP held a Greater Yellowlegs 7/25 (HM). Solitary and Spotted Sandpiper were found at four and five locations, respectively. There were 13 Least Sandpiper at LR 7/13 (DC) and BI hosted a Pectoral Sandpiper 7/19 (RK, DC). A pair of Caspian Terns at CSP 7/13 (KL) were a bit on the early side; LR had a pair on the more expected dates of 7/29-30 (DC, RS).

There was a Black-billed Cuckoo at SRTP 7/31 (CH), and five locations saw Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Barred Owl were regularly found at GPSP from 6/2-20 (BS, RS, EW) with a high count of four. Woodpecker and flycatcher reports were fairly typical but just two reports of Willow Flycatcher were below normal. BI was the top vireo locale with White-eyed, Yellow-throated, and Warbling vireos all found more than once during the period. GPSP also produced a Yellow-throated Vireo 6/9 (EW).

A pair of Common Raven remained in the John Rudy County Park area with likely nesting at a nearby quarry (DH). Horned Lark was nearly a miss as only a single was found at ALT 6/1 (AM) and 7/31 (NH). SPGR again had a very small Bank Swallow colony in an industrial lime mud pile. The colony was likely observed after peak activity as the first visit, 6/22 (PK), only found five birds while a 7/14 visit found two. The BI report of 15 birds 7/19 (RK) likely reflects migration movement as there are no recent reports of a colony in that area. The CSP Cliff Swallow colony was intact for another year with 10 found 7/2 (PM). Rare for the period, a Red-breasted Nuthatch was in a SpT backyard 7/30 (DH). GPSP provided the Veery reports with two 6/2 (BS) and one 6/9 (EW).

There were only ten warbler species reported. A Pine Warbler was at LW 6/14-19 (CK). BI continues as a breeding site for Prothonotary Warbler with reports 6/1-7/8. A Worm-eating Warbler was found in a wooded farm parcel along Dellinger School Rd 6/24 (LW). A Kentucky Warbler was at GPSP 6/9 (EW) and LR produced a Yellow-breasted Chat 7/13 (AG).

Reports of Savannah and Grasshopper sparrow were limited to two locations, ALT and GPSP. A flightless White-throated Sparrow continued to survive throughout the period at a York backyard (DC). Blue Grosbeak were at BI from 6/11 (RK) to at least 7/23 (BS, RK) and one was found at a park along Accomac Rd 6/10 (EW). A single Bobolink was at ALT 7/31 (AM). Eastern Meadowlark was reported throughout the period (m.ob.) at three locations: HIGH, ALT, and GPSP with a high count of 10 from ALT 6/26 (RS). Observers: Phil Keener, 198 Jacobs Street, East Berlin, PA 17316, (717) 259-9984, [email protected], John Beatty, Betty & Peter Bengtson (BPB), Lou Carpenter, Dick Cleary, Travis Clemens, Steve Collins, Ian Gardner, Al Guarente, Dan Heathcote, Nancy Heiser, Carolyn Hoffman, Dave Kerr, Chuck Kling, Ramsay Koury, Karen Lippy, Andy McGann, Henry McLin, Peter Morgan, Brain Shade, Robin Smith, Kyle Van Why, Linda Widdop, Eric Witmer.

IN FOCUS

Snowy Plover, Erie County. See p.168. (Jerry McWilliams)

Summer Tanager, Lebanon County. See p. 173 (Holly Merker)

American Avocets, Indiana County. See p. 171 (Jeff McDonald) PUBLICATION SCHEDULE: Materials to be included in the publication are needed by the due dates below.

Issue Sightings due to Compilers

by… Articles due to Editor by… Publication Date

Dec-Feb (Vol. 1) 31 March 1 May July

Mar-May (Vol. 2) 30 June 1 August October

Jun-Jul (Vol. 3) 31 August 1 October December

Aug-Nov (Vol. 4) 31 December 1 February April

SUBMISSION OF MATERIALS FOR PUBLICATION: We welcome submission of feature articles, artwork, or photographs focusing on any aspect of Pennsylvania birds or birding. We strongly encourage that submissions be sent in electronic format by email but will accept hard copy if necessary. For articles, the Microsoft Office suite (any version) is preferred; however we will accept any popularly used format except PDF. Digital photos or scanned image files sent for consideration should be in JPG format and resized down to 600-1200 pixels on the longer axis (if the source file is larger than these dimensions), and compressed to no larger than 250kB. Larger files will be requested by the editor if necessary. Submitted photos may be cropped or adjusted for color, brightness, or contrast as the editor sees fit without notice to the photographer. When submitting by email, all files should be sent as attachments—DO NOT embed pictures or documents within the email body. Photos with copyright or signature text visible in the image will not be accepted. Photographers will be acknowledged in the photo caption. Hard copies of any material must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope if the author desires to have the material returned. PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS assumes no liability or responsibility for any unsolicited materials. REPRINTS: Request reprints of articles from: PSO, 2469 Hammertown Rd., Narvon, PA 17555, or [email protected]. ADVERTISING: Current rates for classified ads are $0.75 per word with a minimum of 20 words. A copy-ready block of approximately 2" by 2" would be $50.00 per issue. Rates for other sizes or types of advertising are negotiable. Copy deadline is as noted above. Payment should be sent with copy. PENNSYLVANIA BIRDS and PSO are not responsible for the quality of goods or services advertised herein. Send all articles, artwork, advertising, etc. to Geoff Malosh, 450 Amherst Avenue, Moon Township, PA 15108-2654, [email protected].

seasonal editors · 2017-11-15 · seasonal editors daniel brauning michael fialkovich greg grove...

Documents